Resources
Documents and links
Everything here is free to download and use. Documents carry a version number, so check you have the current version before sending anything on.
Starting an arbitration
Draft arbitration agreementThe agreement in draft, for review before a preliminary conference. The particulars are settled at the conference and the agreement is signed after each party has obtained independent advice.
Proposing arbitrationA checklist for a practitioner putting arbitration to the other side.Arbitration has been proposedFor a party who has received a proposal, explaining what agreeing to arbitrate means.Preparing for your preliminary conferenceWhat to have ready before the conference, and what will be settled at it.For parties
Plain English handouts for a party, or to send with advice.
What is family law arbitrationA plain English introduction: what an arbitrator does, what can be arbitrated, and how an award works.Process and indicative timetableA sample timetable from preliminary conference to award.What to expect at a preliminary conferenceWhat happens at the first conference, who attends, and what is decided.What to expect at an arbitration hearingHow the hearing runs, what your role is on the day, and what follows it.
Useful links
Australian Institute of Family Law Arbitrators and Mediators (AIFLAM)The list of accredited arbitrators, and the accreditation requirements.Opens in a new tabFederal Circuit and Family Court of Australia — arbitrationThe Court’s practice direction and the National Arbitration List.Opens in a new tabFamily Law Act 1975, Part IIIBOn the Federal Register of Legislation.Opens in a new tabFamily Law Regulations 2024On the Federal Register of Legislation.Opens in a new tab