These key principles were published in LEADR’s response to the rent Commonwealth NADRAC report on how to improve use of alternative dispute resolution in the civil justice system.

Key National Principles for Resolving Disputes

Social justice and inclusion is advanced by:

1. Encouraging people to take genuine steps to resolve or reduce their

disputes by themselves or by using an ADR process before considering

court or tribunal proceedings

2. Encouraging people using litigation to seek opportunities to use ADR

before and at all stages during the litigation process

3. Reserving courts and tribunals for disputes that cannot be resolved

otherwise or that involve a significant public interest issue

4. Developing and promoting standard definitions of dispute resolution

processes that clearly distinguish one process from another

5. Making information widely available that enables people to choose the

most suitable process to address their dispute

6. Explaining the ADR process and the role of the practitioner to people

using an ADR service

7. Ensuring that dispute resolution services and practitioners meet

standards that aim to avoid harm and maximize effectiveness