How to negotiate property mediations and come out a winner!

Mediation is a process where a neutral third party called a mediator helps people in conflict negotiate a mutually acceptable agreement. The process assists both parties to understand the other party's point of view and reach a compromise.

During the course of 2020, the COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) (Commercial Leases and Licences) Regulations 2020 (Regulations) (and further regulations) were enacted that required any party to a commercial (including retail) property dispute attend a mediation before issuing a claim in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). The Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC) offered free mediation services for landlords and tenants who were in dispute. A number of matters were heard by the VSBC with the majority resolved successfully.