Following the implementation of further social distancing measures earlier this week, we have revised our position in relation to mediations.

From 30 March 2020, all mediations will be postponed.  Each mediation will be given a new date, commencing in June 2020.  While future dates are being given, these may need to be reviewed when the duration of the pandemic becomes clearer.

In the meantime, if you wish to consider private mediation, you may like to contact John Taylor on 8223 6477 or Stephen Dickinson on 0414 456 474.  They may be able to assist you, or recommend other private mediators who may be able to provide assistance.  If you do proceed to private mediation, please let the appropriate chambers know, so that your date can be offered to another matter.

For the 4 week period commencing 14 April 2020, all other matters will be dealt with as previously advised.  Here is a reminder (with a number of additional matters highlighted in bold):

  • All directions hearings will be done via email:
    • all adjournments will be by email.  A record of outcome will be sent to all parties.
    • if substantive orders are required, parties are to send in consent orders.  A record of outcome will be sent to all parties.
    • if parties cannot agree on consent orders, each party must set out their position with a brief explanation.  The master dealing with the matter will make a decision which will be emailed to all parties with a record of outcome.
    • emails for directions hearings are to be received by chambers by the time and date of the directions hearing – eg if the directions hearing is currently listed for 10.10 on 17 March 2020, all emails setting out the position of the parties are to be received by that time.  However, you are encouraged to send in your emails as soon as possible, and prior to the listed time, to allow efficient processing of all matters.  In particular, we ask that you provide us with your instructions in relation to possession matters as early as possible. 
  • All arguments will be dealt with on the papers.  For arguments where there are currently orders in place, please advise chambers if further orders are required dealing, for example with the staggered filing of submissions.  Final submissions must be received by chambers by the time and date on which the argument is currently listed.
  • Settlement conferences currently listed will be held between the parties, by telephone or some other method agreed between them, without court involvement.  After the settlement conference has been held, parties are asked to advise chambers of the outcome and of any orders required.  For conferences listed in the future, they will be listed on the basis that a time for an email directions hearing will be given, with the settlement conference to be held at the convenience of the parties by that time.
  • The only matters that will be dealt with in the court room will be possession applications where an order for possession is sought, winding up applications and urgent matters where there has not been time for the parties to agree a position.

If you are of the view that your directions hearing or argument must still proceed in a court room, please email chambers with your reasons, to allow the Master to consider your request. 

Judge Graham Dart                                                                                Judge Katrina Bochner 
SUPREME COURT MASTER                                                              SUPREME COURT MASTER

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