What Is Mediation?
Mediation is a structured and confidential process that helps people resolve disputes with the support of an independent, trained professional known as a mediator.
Unlike court or arbitration, mediation does not involve a decision being imposed. The mediator manages the process and supports constructive discussion, while the parties remain in control of the outcome.
What Does a Mediator Do?
A mediator is neutral and impartial. Their role is to manage the process so people can have a constructive discussion.
- Facilitate respectful communication
- Ensure each person has the opportunity to be heard
- Clarify issues and identify common ground
- Help parties explore options
- Support the development of practical agreements
Where Is Mediation Used?
Common Disputes
- Workplace disputes
- Commercial disagreements
- Community and neighbourhood conflict
- Organisational or partnership disputes
- Elder Mediation
- Education Setting
- Sporting Club Conflict Mediation provides a structured process to help people move from conflict to workable agreement — while maintaining dignity and control over the outcome.
Family-related matters (specialist pathway)
Mediation may also be used in family-related matters. However, professionals supporting separating couples in parenting and property matters must complete specialist training and registration as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) with the Attorney General Office.
This requires additional qualifications beyond AMDRAS training.
Why Choose Mediation?
- More cost-effective than litigation
- Faster than formal legal proceedings
- Less adversarial
- Focused on practical and sustainable outcomes
Because parties actively participate in shaping the agreement, compliance and long-term effectiveness are often improved.
Is Mediation a Career?
Yes. Mediators bring experience from a wide range of professional backgrounds including law, human resources, business, education, social services and community work. However, you do not need a specific career background to train as a mediator. Mediation training is open to people from all industries and stages of life, provided they meet the requirements set under national standards.
In Australia, professional mediation training aligns with national standards under AMDRAS (Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards). These standards ensure consistent training, ethical practice and ongoing professional development for accredited mediators. Many are drawn to mediation because they want to build constructive problem-solving skills, support people through conflict, contribute as peacemakers, transition into a new career direction, or strengthen their professional capability within their existing role.
From there, practitioners may
- Work independently
- Join mediation panels
- Specialise in workplace or commercial matters
- Progress into advanced practice
- Undertake supervision training
Professional standards
AMDRAS sets national standards for mediator training and accreditation. Training pathways help you build competence and credibility.
Training Pathways at Mediation Institute
We offer professional development at every experience level, from foundation training through to supervision.
Starting Out
AMDRAS Certificate of Training
Accredited foundation training for those beginning their mediation career.
Experienced Mediators (4+ Years)
Practicum Certificate
Structured development to deepen skills and strengthen professional capability.
Advanced Practitioners
Supervision Training
Develop the skills required to supervise and support other mediators.
Family Dispute Resolution Pathway
Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution
Required qualification for those seeking registration as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP).
Not sure where to start?
If you need help deciding between AMDRAS training and family dispute resolution pathways, contact the team for guidance.