AMDRAS Mediation Training
Pending AMDRAS BOARD Approval as a Recognised Training Provider Under AMDRAS.
This course contains bonus skills training in pre-mediation and video mediation.
This course is designed to meet the requirements of the Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards (AMDRAS).
Upon successful completion you will be issued with a Certificate of Training.
You can find out more about the transition from the National Mediator Accreditation System NMAS to the Australian Mediator and Dispute Resolution Accreditation Standards AMDRAS here – www.mediationinstitute.edu.au/amdras
There are no minimum entry requirements for this course. However, a good level of written and spoken English is needed to complete it successfully.
This course is delivered over 6 weeks through a structured online program - making it more accessible for everyone.
Estimated time to complete 53 hours.
Who is a Mediator?
A mediator is a 3rd party who assists parties to a dispute identify the disputed issues, develop options, consider alternatives and endeavours to assist them to reach decisions and / or agreements. A mediator manages and may advise on or determine the process of mediation but does not determine the outcomes of the dispute.
Course Overview
This course is delivered over 6 weeks with a time commitment of between 5 and 11 hours per week.
Course Content
The course exceeds the minimum requirements for AMDRAS training with the addition of training in video mediation facilitation skills and practical training in pre-mediation.
The time line shows the path your training will take.
Role Plays
Role plays provide the opportunity to develop the unique skills of a mediator over time with reflective practice sessions to assist with deepening your understanding of the mediation process and your facilitation skills as a mediator.
They are scheduled in at the start of the course providing you with the opportunity to block out the time and make arrangements for your availability.
Technology
This course is delivered fully online. You will need the following technology:
- A Computer with access to reliable internet – you can participate as a role player on a mobile phone but to facilitate as a mediator and for the best coursework experience, a computer is recommended
- Video and Audio – Camera (built into laptops) and Microphone / Speakers. We recommend using headphones if you have any background noise.
Course Overview Video: Explore what the course offers!
Certified Training
AMDRAS Training
Certificate of Training (COT)-
Fully online learning - 6 week course
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Structured online learning, tutorials, group discussions
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Pre-Mediation Role Play session
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9 x 2 hour Mediation role play sessions
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No work placement requirement
AMDRAS Assessment
AMDRAS Assessment
Certificate of Assessment (COA)-
Fully Online - 2 to 2 1/2 hour online assessment and written assessment tasks
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Individually scheduled assessment role play
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Abridged revision course included
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Mentoring or Re-assessment if needed - additional fees apply
Frequently Asked Questions
The start dates of each cohort training are listed on this course page. Scroll up.
We normally have a new group starting every 3 weeks and the course runs for 6 weeks.
If you want to enrol before a new group starts you can. Get started on the theory which will reduce the weekly intensity of the course.
Course Start Dates 2025:
– 3rd February 25
– 24th February 25
– 17th March 25
– 7th April 25
– 5th May 25
– 26th May 25
– 16th June 25
– 7th August 25
– 25th August 25
– 15 September 25
– 13th October 25
– 3rd November 25
We deliver this course over 6 weeks. We believe that this supports better learning outcomes providing you with the opportunity to learn and absorb the information and skills development this training course provides.
Some courses will be over 7 weeks to allow for holidays in April, July and September. This will give those on the course a bit longer to complete.
We include training in facilitating mediation online using video mediation on the Zoom video meeting platform. The training includes how to put people in waiting rooms, how to share your screen, record your meeting – for training purposes only, you would not record a mediation with clients!
The course has a number of quizzes and discussions that are designed to help you to consolidate your learning throughout the course. This is not a formal assessment process but we do expect you to complete the tasks to ensure that you are on track and ready for your role plays as a mediator.
The role plays are learning tasks and not a formal assessment. The formal assessment occurs in the Certificate of Assessment Course which is only able to be completed once you have completed the Certificate of Training.
We will do what we can to support your learning. Our learning management system is accessible however the best approach is to contact us to discuss your needs. Our course is designed for online delivery and not available as an intensive in person face to face option.
The course includes the following content:
- Introduction to the COT – certificate of training expectations, introductions and coordination
- Online Mediation Facilitation (Zoom Training)
- Introduction to Role Plays – role play etiquette, how to participate and schedule for your course
- The AMDRAS System – a complete overview of the Standards and expectations of an Accredited Mediator AMDRAS
- The Dynamics of Conflict – a comprehensive training on conflict theory and models, bias and perspective taking
- Ethical Dispute Resolution – including the obligations we have as mediators under AMDRAS, other dispute resolution models and legislative contexts
- Pre-Mediation – theory, process and practice including practical training
- Mediation – the mediation process step by step looking at what, why and how to facilitate the mediation process. Includes practical training.
- A deeper dive into mediator skills – this model starts introducing advanced communication and facilitation skills as you move through your role plays you’ll be able to deepen and refine your skills with detailed explanations and models
To participate effectively in the course, you will need to use the following technology:
- Computer: A reliable computer (PC or Mac) capable of running video conferencing software.
- Internet: Stable internet connection with a minimum speed of 10 Mbps for smooth video sessions and a quiet space to participate in role plays and tutorials. Maximum duration is 2 hours.
- Video Conferencing Software: To access all the tools you need when running a simulated mediation, you will need to register and download a free version of Zoom www.zoom.us
- Audio/Video Equipment: A functioning webcam and microphone are essential for participation in online role plays.
The course contains recorded video lectures and guides as well as the written materials but we encourage you to attend all the tutorials and reflective practice sessions.
It is possible to complete the course without attending all of the tutorials and other live training and group sessions but you must participate in all 9 mandatory mediation role plays in order to complete the course.
If you have a problem that prevents you from meeting the course timelines you can request a transfer to a different course group.
You can request a transfer up to 2 times and must complete the course within 12 months.
Role plays are a mandatory part of the course and require significant effort to coordinate.
You will cause significant disruption if you are a “no show” or otherwise are not prepared e.g. have not allowed the 2 hour time slot or do not have a quiet, distraction free space to participate.
Please ensure that you meet your commitments once you enrol in the course.
The course is designed for online delivery. We may be able to accommodate a role play day where you will be able to participate in 3 role plays in person.
This depends on the availability of a trainer and two other students who are interested in the same location.
Please indicate your interest in a role play day on the enrolment form.
An additional cost applies to help cover catering and room hire costs for role play days.
Meet Our Supportive Training Team
All team members are Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners.
Joanne Law
Cynthia Brooking
Ken Speakman
Lee Lee
Brian Williams
Mel Meunier
