Mediation Institute is proud to announce that Murray Bickerdike has achieved Leading Mediator accreditation under the Australian Mediation and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards (AMDRAS), effective 10 August 2026.
Leading Mediator is the highest level of accreditation within AMDRAS, recognising experienced mediators who have demonstrated exceptional depth of practice, a sustained commitment to developing others, and genuine leadership within the mediation community — whether across a particular field, region, or the profession as a whole.
About Murray Bickerdike
Murray Bickerdike LL.B. (Hons) is the Director of ADR Support Pty Ltd and has practised in workplace conflict resolution for more than 30 years, holding national mediator accreditation for 17 of those years.
His practice spans major Victorian public sector agencies — including the Department of Justice and Community Safety, the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, the Australian Federal Police, AHPRA, WorkSafe, Victoria Police and multiple health services — as well as private sector clients. Murray is a strong advocate for mediation and early intervention over formal investigation processes, and regularly presents to executives and HR leaders on shifting workplace dispute resolution culture.
Murray has a long-standing commitment to developing other practitioners — mentoring both new and experienced mediators, convening peer learning and support forums, and presenting regularly on mediator skills. His referees attested to his leadership, his mentoring of new mediators, and his sustained contribution to the profession over many years.
For Murray, Leading Mediator standing represents a continuing commitment to supporting new and established mediators to reflect on and improve their practice — and a hope that Leading Mediators will be seen as a resource for the wider mediation community.
The Assessment Process
Murray was assessed under Special Framework 3 (AMDRAS cl 16c). His application was reviewed and his panel interview conducted by Joanne Law and Paul Kenna Law on 8 August 2026, with all evidence requirements fully met.
How to Apply for Leading Mediator Accreditation
Leading Mediator is available to experienced practitioners who meet the criteria under Special Framework 3 until 30 June 2031.
You may be eligible if you:
- Have held AMDRAS or NMAS accreditation for at least 10 years
- Have 400+ practice hours since accreditation, including 250+ hours in the preceding 6 years
- Hold current Advanced Mediator accreditation or a Practicum Certificate
- Have an ongoing commitment to training, mentoring or supervising other Registered Practitioners
- Can provide two written references attesting to your practice and leadership
- Are willing to participate in a panel interview
There is no fee for the administration and review of Leading Mediator nominations. This is Mediation Institute’s contribution to recognising leadership in the profession.
Apply for Leading Mediator Accreditation →
Not yet an Advanced Mediator? You may be eligible to complete your Practicum Certificate via the standard workshop or the alternative pathway.