National mediator accreditation
If you’ve recently completed mediation training, you can apply for national mediator accreditation.
National accreditation means your mediation skills will be recognised across Australia. It is based on the Australian mediator and dispute resolution accreditation standards (AMDRAS). These standards aim to improve the quality of mediation services nationally.
Getting accredited is voluntary, but employers and clients are increasingly seeking accredited mediators.
Once accredited, you’ll need to renew your accreditation every 2 years.
Who can apply
You are eligible to apply for accreditation if you have completed one of the following within the last 6 months:
- a certificate of training and certificate of assessment from us (the Dispute Resolution Branch)
- evidence that you have completed equivalent courses at another recognised training provider.
If you have missed the 6-month deadline, you can email us at trainingdrb@justice.qld.gov.au to discuss your options.
See part 4, division 4 of the standards for more information about who is eligible.
How to apply
To apply, email your mediation training certificates and completed accreditation application form to trainingdrb@justice.qld.gov.au.
You must also give us evidence of your mediation-related insurance, statutory indemnity or employee status if:
- you are not a panel mediator appointed under the Dispute Resolution Centres Act 1990 (the DRC Act)
- you are a panel mediator and mediate outside of the Dispute Resolution Branch (DRB).
Fees and invoices
The fee for 2 years’ accreditation is $130.
We will give you a link to our online payment portal when you apply.
Receipts are automatically generated after you make your online payment.
If you need a tax invoice, you must select this option on the payment form.
What happens next
We will assess your application within 14 days.
If you are successful, you will receive your accreditation certificate. You will also be added to the national register.
If you are not successful, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons why your accreditation was refused. If you disagree with the decision, you can write to us setting out the reasons why you disagree. Our director or the delegate of DRB will consider your reasons and make the final decision on your application.
Complaints about mediators
Complaints about DRB staff and mediators appointed under the DRC Act will be investigated in line with the Department of Justice Client complaints management policy.
Complaints about all other mediators who are accredited with us will be investigated in line with our AMDRAS complaints management policy and procedures. You may also be charged for the cost of managing complaints under this policy, including costs for:
- conducting an investigation
- any reviews of that investigation.
Recognised provider
The Dispute Resolution Branch is a recognised training and accreditation provider under AMDRAS.
