Sound familiar?
Neighbour & civil dispute mediation
You may still have to live next door or work alongside each other after the dispute. A structured conversation helps you explore a fair arrangement before the disagreement becomes more entrenched.
- Fences, trees, noise or a shared driveway causing friction.
- A strata or community disagreement with communication breaking down.
- A civil or family-business dispute where people want to explore agreement.
A practical next step
How I help
- 01
Check suitability
We discuss the issue, participants, safety concerns and any relevant formal process.
- 02
Prepare separately
Each person can explain their concerns and consider what a workable outcome might look like.
- 03
Explore options together
I hold an impartial discussion that focuses on interests, practical constraints and possible agreements.
- 04
Record what is agreed
Participants decide the outcome. Any need for a formal deed, legal advice or other documentation is discussed separately.
Who it’s for
Available to councils, schools, health services, aged and disability care providers, and small and family businesses. Individuals, neighbours, property owners and community groups can also enquire.
Serving Northern Rivers NSW, Tweed, Gold Coast, Brisbane and SE Qld, with Australia-wide online appointments. In-person availability is agreed for your location.
Areas we serve →Why Open Hands
Lorraine Dawson is an AMDRAS-accredited mediator and qualified lawyer (LLB), with a master’s in HR and organisational development. She brings an impartial, practical understanding of the people and legal issues involved.
Meet in person or online. Information is handled confidentially, subject to agreed terms, legal obligations and relevant safety exceptions.
Questions people ask
General information only, not legal advice. Your circumstances and the current rules matter.
Can you decide a fence or tree dispute?
No. A mediator does not make a court or tribunal ruling. Participants explore options and decide whether to agree.
Do both neighbours need to take part?
A joint mediation needs the relevant participants to agree to engage. The initial call can discuss how an invitation might be made.
Is a mediation agreement automatically binding?
That depends on the terms, form and circumstances. Obtain legal advice if you need a binding settlement or advice about property rights.
What if there are safety concerns?
Tell me before any joint meeting. Mediation may be unsuitable, and urgent threats or safety risks should be directed to the appropriate emergency or support service.
Can we mediate online?
Yes, where suitable. Each person needs privacy and access to the agreed technology; in-person arrangements can also be discussed.
Start with a conversation.
Thirty minutes, no cost, no obligation.