Beginning in September 2017, with a staged roll-out over 4 years, the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (DSCV) and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) are partnering to deliver the Civil Mediation at VCAT Program. This program will enhance access to justice for everyday Victorians through the provision of alternative dispute resolution processes for customers who commence an appropriate Civil matter at VCAT that falls within the threshold suitable for mediation.
The program is in response to a recommendation made as part of the Access to Justice Review. More information about the review can be found here (External link).
Under the program, customers who commence an action with VCAT are referred for a compulsory mediation session with a DSCV mediator. If appropriate, the mediator will work with parties to try and assist them to resolve their issue on the day of the hearing. This service is a quick and inexpensive way for the parties to resolve their claim without having to go through a full hearing.
The service will initially be offered in the CBD only, but will be expanded over the four-year program to include all regional locations.
If you have questions about the program or would like to speak to a DSCV staff member about the service, please visit our contact us page or email the team (External link).