We may offer to subsidise an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process where a small business is in dispute with another business. This service is provided to assist small businesses to maximise their opportunity to resolve their dispute without having to go to court.

A subsidised half day or full day ADR process may be offered to parties where we are providing case management support under the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Act 2015 or an Industry Code (for example the Franchising Code of Conduct). 

Depending on the length of the process offered, a co-payment of $250-$500 is required from each party. We will cover the remainder amount. 

We will determine access to the service after considering the matter’s circumstances. This includes the value in dispute, previous attempts at resolution, and whether both parties have expressed a willingness to participate in an ADR process and to bring a resolution-mindset.

More information is available in the Guidelines for small business dispute help. 

Guidelines for Subsidised Alternative Dispute Resolution (word)

Guidelines for Subsidised Alternative Dispute Resolution (PDF)