The Chartered Institute of Arbitration has launched arbitration and out-of-court mediation services in the Northern Territory to help ease court backlogs and finalise disputes more quickly while reducing costs.

Ciarb Australia is part of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a world leader in the training, accreditation and practice of arbitration and dispute resolution. Its new service, an essential enhancement to the resources available for dispute resolution in the Territory, was launched on August 14 at William Forster Chambers in Darwin City with NT Chief Justice Michael Grant.

“It is welcomed by the Supreme Court, because arbitration has the benefits of relieving pressure on the courts, reducing costs for the parties and finalising disputes more quickly,” Chief Justice Grant said.

Over 30 representatives from the local legal community attended the launch, including notable law firms and legal associations.

“This is a significant step in making arbitration more accessible to Territorians and in bringing the Territory in line with the national and international arbitration and alternative dispute resolution communities,” Mr Grant said.

Ciarb Australia President Geoff Farnsworth said the organisation’s establishment in the Territory aims to meet the increasing demand for domestic and international arbitration through promotion, training, and offering accredited qualifications recognised globally.

“That we will be based in Darwin, Australia’s most northern port capital city and the hub of a thriving economy on the door-step of the most dynamic region on the planet, means there will be opportunities for practitioners to be qualified and meet the demand for arbitrating disputes in a wide range of sectors including major infrastructure and construction, transport, energy and resources, maritime, sport, finance, IT, tourism, the arts, media and government schemes,” Mr Farnsworth said.

NT Bar Association vice president Dr Cameron Ford said the association is creating a plan for effective dispute resolution, including arbitration, and that Ciarb’s training and support will be crucial.

Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the initiative will enhance the Territory’s ability to address issues promptly and justly, providing increased certainty for businesses and industries.

“Arbitration is an important part of a modern justice system,” she said. “We welcome Ciarb Australia’s decision to establish a Northern Territory chapter, which will enhance our reputation as a place where commercial and civil disputes can be resolved efficiently and with confidence.”