What does mediation cost?

Contributed by Margaret Halsmith and current to 1 September 2005

The cost of mediation varies considerably, depending on who provides it. In some situations it may be free, for example under the Aged Care Act 1997 (Cth); in other situations a small fee may be charged, for example at some Community Legal Centres. Community organisations such as Relationships Australia usually charge on a sliding scale for family law mediations and at a commercial rate for other mediations. Private mediators charge according to their rates and usually, but not always, distribute the fee equally among all parties. In addition, there may be fees for professional advisors whether or not they attend the mediation.

It is important to compare the costs and benefits of mediation with the costs and benefits of other processes, as well as with the costs and benefits of taking no action.