Mediation in the Magistrates’ Court

The South Australian Magistrates’ Court has operated a mediation service that has been available to parties in civil matters for several years.

Since July 2013, free mediation has been available in the Magistrates’ Court if it is requested by the parties in the period after a plaintiff serves the Final Notice of Claim on the defendant, but before the plaintiff lodges the claim itself.

Otherwise, if the decision to mediate is made by the parties after a claim has been lodged and action commenced, a minimal cost is involved.

Minor Civil Claim

For a minor civil claim (claims up to $25,000), the cost of mediation is $500 (plus GST).

General Civil Claim

For a general civil claim (claims between $25,001 – $100,000), the cost of mediation is 2% of the claim (plus GST) but is capped to a maximum of $2,000 (plus GST).