Dispute resolution refers to all processes that are used to address disputes. It includes all dispute resolution methods and approaches from early resolution through to formal tribunal or court processes.

Disputes can involve:

• individuals (eg, neighbours in dispute over a shared driveway)

• companies (eg, an employee in dispute with an employer)

• sometimes the government itself (eg, a company challenging a decision by a government agency).

In all these situations, the parties involved generally have a range of options for managing or resolving the dispute. They may try to:

• resolve it themselves

• agree to use a third party to help them (eg, privately contract with a mediator)

• use a process provided by government (eg, a government mediation service, tribunal or ombudsman)

• use a process provided by the private sector (eg, an industry body).

In some circumstances, the formal court system may be an appropriate channel or a last recourse when other approaches have been unsuccessful.