A New Chapter for Mediation and Dispute Resolution in Australia
Today marks the official conclusion of the transition from the National Mediator Accreditation System (NMAS) to the Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards (AMDRAS) — a milestone that reflects more than a decade of professional development in the Australian mediation landscape.
From 1 July 2025, the AMDRAS framework formally replaces NMAS as the national system governing the training, assessment, accreditation and professional oversight of Australian mediators and dispute resolution practitioners. This system was developed and adopted by the former Mediator Standards Board now known as the AMDRAS Board following extensive consultation across the profession.
“The AMDRAS Board extends its sincere thanks to our members — particularly those that have already worked to become Recognised Providers — for their professionalism and commitment throughout this transition,” said AMDRAS Chair Stephen Dickinson.
“The contributions of our community have been critical to the development and implementation of a robust, future-focused national standards framework.”
New Structure, Elevated Standards
AMDRAS introduces several key enhancements, including:
- Tiered Accreditation: New recognition levels of Advanced Mediator and Leading Mediator.
- Practicum Certificate: A new 12 hour program to support ongoing professional growth for more experienced mediators.
- Clearer Pathways: Improved alternative pathway protocols and guidelines for special frameworks to support the recognition of eligible practitioners.
- Modernised Governance: Strengthened complaints-handling, auditing, and recognition processes to enhance consumer protection.
Most former NMAS RMABs have successfully transitioned or are in the process of transitioning to the AMDRAS-recognised framework, and a small number of new entrants have also joined the system. There is a clearer distinction between Recognised Training Providers RTPs and Recognised Accreditation Providers RAPs under AMDRAS and we continue to welcome applications from providers who meet the standards.
Supporting Mediation Practitioners and the Sector
Mediators currently accredited under NMAS are now recognised as AMDRAS Accredited Mediators. Accredited mediators do not need to take action unless they are approaching renewal which they can do as usual with their RAP’s. The transition rules provide until 31 December 2025 to complete their renewal if there is any delay with their Recognised Accreditation Provider’s approval.
The upcoming launch of the AMDRAS National Register will also provide a more streamlined way for the public, providers and practitioners to verify accreditation status and access the latest framework information.
“As a long-standing accreditation provider, we’ve welcomed the shift to AMDRAS. The new framework reflects the maturity of our profession — it strengthens assessment, modernises governance, and promotes higher standards across the board,”
“Importantly, it was developed with genuine sector input, and the Board’s support during the transition has helped providers like ours update our frameworks and prepare to deliver services under AMDRAS without disruption to practitioners or clients.” Ashley Eastall, Executive Manager, Dispute Resolution Branch, Department of Justice Qld, an AMDRAS Recognised Provider.
MEDIA CONTACT
About AMDRAS
(Formerly known as the Mediator Standards Board).
The AMDRAS Board is responsible for
the development of Australian mediator
accreditation standards and the implementation
of the Australian Mediator and Dispute
Resolution Accreditation Standards (AMDRAS).
Website> www.amdras.au
Media Queries
AMDRAS Chairperson, Stephen Dickinson, is available for comment.
For further information or to arrange comment
Contact Sarah Frisen
AMDRAS Secretariat
E: [email protected].