Dispute Resolution Process

Dispute Resolution Process - Clause 10
The Code provides for two dispute resolution processes, depending on the type of dispute.

Clause 10 deals with internal dispute resolution (IDR) and is designed to deal with disputes that arise prior to commencement or completion of repair. These type of disputes will revolve mainly around issues relating to methods of repair, but does not include disputes relating to amounts paid for repair.

IDR is the insurer’s own internal dispute resolution process. Each insurer signatory’s process may differ slightly, but in all cases the process will be prompt, fair and transparent.

Notification of Dispute
In the event of a dispute under clause 10, the repairer must notify the respective insurer’s complaints contact providing full details of the dispute and supporting evidence of the concern and the redress sought.

Dispute Resolution Procedure
The procedure is designed to be a speedy process and any such disputes need to be fully investigated and a determination made within 2 business days.

The full procedure is documented in clause 10.3.

External Dispute Resolution - clause 11
This process applies to all disputes relating to alleged non- compliance with the Code and to disputes of a contractual nature, but does not apply to disputes which are described in sub clauses 10.1(a) and 10.1(c). It is important to note that this process is only available if both the insurer and the repairer, involved in the dispute, are signatories to the Code.

External Dispute Resolution Procedure
The external disputes resolution (EDR), refer clause 11, is based on the concept of mediation by an independent and trained mediator.

Before undertaking the EDR process, it is a requirement of the Code that IDR be undertaken in an endeavour to mutually resolve the matter. Should IDR fail, and provided the dispute is of a nature that allows it to be dealt with under EDR provisions of the Code, EDR can be initiated.

To commence an EDR action under the Code, the applicant must lodge a notice of dispute with the CAC’s nominee, LEADR, providing the necessary information as out lined in clause 11.3.

Conditions - clause 11.4


Undertaking EDR mediation does not affect the right of a party to take legal action in relation to a dispute. Parties to an EDR are to share the costs equally, unless they agree otherwise, irrespective of the outcome of mediation. Parties to pay for their own costs of attending a mediation.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is an informal process for helping people who have disputes to sort them out for themselves. The Mediator provides this help. The Mediator helps by encouraging those in dispute to talk about their concerns to each other. The real problems, large or small, are examined with or without the help of legal advisors. Possible solutions are considered and, where possible, terms of agreement to resolve the dispute are nutted out.

Why Mediate?

Mediation allows direct discussion of the real differences and a search for practical solutions. The Mediator helps the process along so there is no unpleasant confrontation and no unneccessary legal obfuscation. There is total informality. No solutions are imposed. You agree to settle only if the settlement can be innovative and creative and focus on real interests and future aims.

When should you Mediate?

It is always worth trying to mediate a settlement first. You will find that mediation started early is likely to save lots of time, money and stress, and give you a better chance of restoring good relations.

Costs 
Under clause 11.4(b), the Code provides that the costs of mediation are to be shared equally between the disputing parties, unless the parties agree otherwise. There are two costs associated with the mediation process; an ‘Administration Fee’ and the ‘Cost of Mediation’ itself.

ADMINISTRATION FEE
The Administration Fee will need to be paid to the CAC’s nominated mediation service provider (LEADR), prior to the mediation process commencing. The Administration Fee is to cover the costs of LEADR nominating a mediator for the dispute and of advising the disputing parties who the mediator is to be and maintaining appropriate records of the process.

This fee is $110.00 per mediation, and as the cost is to be shared equally, the party initiating a notification of dispute will be required to pay their share of the fee (that is $55.00) to LEADR prior to the mediation process commencing. The other party to the dispute will be billed $55.00 soon after.

Upon receiving notification of dispute, LEADR will make contact with the notifying party, requesting payment of $55.00 by credit card. Once this payment has been processed, LEADR can commence the process of appointing a mediator.

MEDIATION COSTS
There is no set cost for mediation as the fee charged will depend on the nature of the dispute, the method of mediation and the length of time taken by the mediation process. The parties to the dispute will be billed directly by the appointed mediator.