The AMDRAS describes mediation as is a confidential facilitative process, in which the parties to a dispute, with the help of a
dispute resolution practitioner (the mediator), endeavour to reach decisions and/or agreements. The mediator does not have a determinative role and does not advise the parties unless with their express consent.

A mediator is a third-party dispute resolution practitioner who assists parties to a dispute identify the disputed issues, develop options, consider alternatives and endeavours to assist them to reach decisions and/or agreements. A mediator manages and may advise on or determine the process of mediation but does not determine the outcome/s of the dispute.

Mediation is a confidential facilitated processes where a third-party assists parties to a dispute to endeavour to resolve their dispute by reaching decisions and/or agreements.

Registered Practitioners, mediators and other accredited dispute resolution practitioners, practice in accordance with the AMDRAS Code of Ethics and any other legal, regulatory or professional obligations they have.

They facilitate an even-handed, safe and ethical process that supports agency, self-determination, co-determination and cooperative decision making to ensure informed decision making. They do not have a determinative role.

The mediator provides information, guidance and advice only when competent and authorised to do so.

Your name should appear on the national register if you have met the accreditation / reaccreditation requirements, and have paid the accreditation / reaccreditation fee.

If you have met all the requirements and your name does not appear on the national register, you should contact your RAP directly who will rectify the issue on your behalf.

When searching be careful not to put a space after your name – it makes a difference with the search engine.

There are two different ways to become a Leading Mediator. The first way is provided for in section 16(a) of the AMDRAS Standards. This section requires you to have been an accredited mediator for at least 10 years and to have been previously accredited as an Advanced Mediator or equivalent for at least 6 of those 10 years. You can apply to your RAP using this process.

The second way is to apply to the AMDRAS Board through your RAP using s. 16(b) of AMDRAS where you do not meet the specific requirements of s. 16(a). This is equivalent, in some ways, to applying for an “alternative pathway” in relation to achieving accredited and advanced standing using AMDRAS sections 34 and 35. Because there is no training requirement for becoming a Leading Mediator there is no specified “alternative pathway” and these matters are elevated for consideration to the AMDRAS Board. As s. 16(b) makes clear you need to demonstrate to your RAP and the Board that you have sufficient practice experience and have been engaged in the dispute resolution field in such a way that is equivalent to those requirements outlined in s. 16.

The AMDRAS framework recognises that practitioners may, at times, step away from practice for extended periods.

For this reason, a formal Leave of Absence (LOA) provision is included within the AMDRAS standards (see clauses 51 and 52 of the Standards).

The LOA provisions allow practitioners to pause their accreditation status during defined periods of absence, while providing appropriate flexibility in relation to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements. The due date for renewal of accreditation will be extended for the period of leave. This ensures that practitioners are not forced to exit the accreditation system due to circumstances such as parental leave, health considerations, career transitions or other extended interruptions to their practice.

At the same time, it preserves the integrity of the accreditation system by requiring formal recognition of the leave period and clear parameters for re-engagement. During the LOA, the practitioner’s name is not shown on the National Register.

This reflects a broader principle within AMDRAS: Consistency in standards, combined with practical mechanisms that reflect real professional pathways.

Further detail on eligibility, conditions and application processes is set out within the AMDRAS Standards. Speak with your Recognised Provider about updating your status if you require leave.

There are different accreditation requirements for NMAS / AMDRAS and FDRP. You will need to review the requirements of each to see if you are eligible.

AMDRAS requirements can be found on this site – visit the Standards or work with a Regcognised Provider to understand requirements.

To view the requirements for FDRP visit:
https://www.ag.gov.au/families-and-marriage/family-dispute-resolution/become-family-dispute-resolution-practitioner