New procedural rules for Western Australia confirm the States commitment to arbitration

On 3 January 2017, the Supreme Court of Western Australia introduced the Supreme Court (Arbitration) Rules 2016 (WA) (Arbitration Rules).¹

The Arbitration Rules outline procedures and contain the forms relevant to the commencement of actions in the Supreme Court that relate to domestic and international arbitration.

WHY ARE THE ARBITRATION RULES IMPORTANT?

The Arbitration Rules are important for three reasons.

1. Firstly, they simplify and clarify the process of initiating court actions relating to international and domestic arbitration in Western Australia.
2. Secondly, they promote consistency across other Australian jurisdictions in relation to arbitration.
3. Thirdly, they demonstrate the willingness of the courts in Western Australia to embrace arbitration as a method of dispute resolution.