New mediation accreditation

QLS Accredited Mediators should be aware that a new mediation accreditation system will start next week.

The Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards (AMDRAS) will formally replace the National Mediator Accreditation System (NMAS) on July 1.

QLS currently accredits mediators under the NMAS as a Recognised Mediator Accreditation Body.

The Society has received approval to accredit mediators under the AMDRAS framework as a Recognised Accreditation Provider.

NMAS Accredited Mediators (including QLS Accredited Mediators) may remain Registered Practitioners under AMDRAS without having to meet the requirements prescribed by Part 4 of AMDRAS until the later of 31 December 2025 or the expiration of their current NMAS Accreditation, by which time they must have renewed their accreditation pursuant to AMDRAS.

Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the AMDRAS requirements to ensure they remain a Registered Practitioner upon accreditation/renewal. No immediate action is required at this stage.

To help QLS accredited mediators in understanding the accreditation process under AMDRAS and the role of QLS in accrediting and re-accrediting mediators under the Standards, QLS will soon publish its Mediator Accreditation Handbook here.

QLS accredited mediators are encouraged to review the following:

• Guidelines for Nationally Accredited Mediators to Transition to AMDRAS; and
• The NMAS to AMDRAS Transitional Rules regarding the transitional arrangements for the replacement of the NMAS by the AMDRAS.

QLS also provides the following information to help current and prospective QLS accredited mediators to navigate the transition:

I only just completed an NMAS mediation course. Will I still be able to apply for accreditation under AMDRAS?

Pursuant to the Transition Rules, persons who have completed NMAS Training and NMAS Accreditation Assessment will be entitled to apply to become a Registered Practitioner under AMDRAS within 6 months of successful completion of their NMAS Accreditation Assessment.

Those who have completed their NMAS Training will be entitled to complete NMAS or AMDRAS Accreditation Assessment within 6 months of successful completion of their NMAS Training.

I am an experienced mediator. How to find out more about applying for Advanced and Leading Mediator status under AMDRAS?

QLS will provide further updates to members about alternative pathways for Advanced and Leading Mediator status once these processes have been finalised.

I am a QLS member and want to become a QLS accredited mediator. Where can I go for further information?

Members are encouraged to visit the QLS webpage for further information and to access the new application for accreditation and reaccreditation forms.

The AMDRAS site also provides information about the changes, and responses to Frequently Asked Questions, here.

Any queries should be directed to policy@qls.com.au.