Dispute Resolution Centre

The Dispute Resolution Branch (DRB) was established by the Queensland Government toprovide a free, confidential and impartial mediation service to the community.Dispute Resolution Centres have been established throughout the State for the convenience of all Queenslanders.Why is the DRC needed?The DRC provides an alternative way of settling disputes before they get to court. This meanssavings in time, legal fees and court costs, not just for the individuals involved, but for thewhole community. It also frees the court system to concentrate on problems that require determination by an outside party.What does this mediation service consist of?It consists of supplying trained mediators who help the parties in a dispute to reach anagreement.Who can use mediation?The mediation services are available to everyone in the community, whatever their education,income, ethnic origins or language ability.What types of disputes can the DRC assist with?The DRC handles a wide range of disputes. Just under half the disputes handled to date havebeen conflicts between neighbours over such issues as trees, boundaries, children and noise.Can the agreement reached in mediation be enforced in a court of law?Normally the agreement is not legally binding, but the people concerned can make theiragreement enforceable if they choose to.When the agreement is drawn up, they may include a statement saying that they want the agreement to be legally binding. The necessary documents can then be drawn up by a solicitor.If the dispute has been referred by the court, the people concerned can ask for a consentorder. This can be prepared by court staff.