Apply for national mediator accreditation

Part of the Mediation training topic

Apply for national mediator accreditation and have your skills recognised under the Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards (AMDRAS).

What you should know

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's based on the Australian mediator and dispute resolution accreditation standards (AMDRAS). These standards aim to improve the quality of mediation services nationally.

The Dispute Resolution Branch is a recognised training and accreditation provider under AMDRAS.

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.

See part 4, division 4 of AMDRAS for more information about who's eligible.

How to apply for national mediation accreditation

Follow these steps to complete the application.

Step 1: Gather your documents

You'll need your mediation training certificates. You'll also need 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)
• a panel mediator and mediate outside of the DRB.

Step 2: Download the reference forms

You'll need 2 written references from members of the community who have known you for more than 3 years and can confirm your good character and eligibility for accreditation.

Download reference forms

Step 3: Complete the online application

Start the online form

Step 4: Pay the fee

We'll give you a link to our online payment portal when you apply.

The fee for accreditation is $130.

Receipts are automatically generated after you make your online payment.

If you need a tax invoice, select this option on the payment form.

See Payment options.

Step 5: Receive the decision about your accreditation

We will notify you about the outcome of your application.

• If you are successful, you'll receive your accreditation certificate. You'll also be added to the national register.
• If are not successful, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons why your accreditation was refused.
• If you disagree with the decision, you can write to us explaining your reasons. Our director, or the delegate of DRB will consider them and make the final decision on your appeal.

Find out how we manage complaints about mediators.

How long it takes

Standard applications: Within 14 business days

How much it costs

The application fee is $130.

The fee you pay is for you to submit your application and have it reviewed.