Oceans Nine: Powering the Surge in Global Dispute Resolution

Join dispute resolution experts sharing knowledge and insights

Add tools to the tool kit, network with industry leaders and workshop to make a ‘real world’ difference

Who Should Attend the Conference

The event attracts over 300 attendees across the two days including Judiciary, Barristers, Solicitors, Arbitrators, Mediators, Expert Determiners, Courts and Tribunal staff, Ombudsman & Commissions, In-House Counsel, Academics, IDR and EDR Teams, Academics, Students and Young Professionals

Gain KNOWLEDGE

Earn CPD POINTS

NETWORK

Be INSPIRED by world-leading jurists and ADR specialists

Conference & Cocktail Reception Venue

Pier One

Walsh Bay, Sydney Harbour

1 May 2025

A setting-off point for global dispute resolution

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Sydney’s iconic harbour and bridge, we look through the lens of this year’s Conference theme – Oceans Nine: Powering the Surge of Global Dispute Resolution – Pier One provides a stunning backdrop for everything from expert panels and workshops, to networking opportunities.

The Australian ADR Conference & Awards 2025 not only celebrates excellence but also fosters meaningful collaborations between Australian and international practitioners. With global issues such as climate change, cross-border disputes, and technological advancements reshaping ADR, this event offers a platform to address these challenges and chart a course for the future.

EXPERT SPEAKERS & FACILITATORS TO BE ANNOUNCED

Anchoring the Conference is Special Guest Speaker:

The Hon. James Allsop AC

Arbitrator & Mediator
Atkin Chambers

The Hon. James Allsop AC is an experienced arbitrator and mediator in a wide range of sectors including shipbuilding, carriage of goods by sea, maritime disputes, and more.

Mr Allsop was made a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2023 for eminent service to the judiciary and to the law, to organisational and technological reform, to legal education, and to insolvency law. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2013.

The former Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia and President of the New South Wales Court of Appeal in 2024, he was appointed as a non-permanent judge of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal, as well as International Judge of the Singapore International Commercial Court.

Conference Programme

Ocean’s Nine: Powering the Surge in Global Dispute Resolution

Do not miss a brilliant conference programme!

Celebrating the 9th annual Australian ADR Awards, this year’s Conference – Oceans Nine: Powering the Surge in Global Dispute Resolution – offers a prestigious international forum to hear from an outstanding line-up of informative, innovative and engaging dispute resolution experts; connect with award-winning practitioners and discuss common interests with fellow dispute resolvers.

Held in conjunction with the Australian ADR Awards 2025, the Conference consists of a dynamic programme of debates, conversations, panels, trivia and workshops to sharpen your expertise and help expand your practice in Australia and internationally.

Led by distinguished jurists, legal experts and ADR thought leaders the Australian ADR Awards Conference is broad-church; leveraging inter-disciplinary knowledge to enhance your practice.

Oceans Nine emphasises collaboration and the interdisciplinary strength of ADR, leveraging insights from across sectors to create a transformative experience. Connect with Award-Winning practitioners and peers as we explore the depths of global dispute resolution and chart a course for the future of ADR.

SESSION SNAPSHOTS

Navigate ADR Excellence:
Award-winning practitioners share ocean-deep insights across diverse practice areas, offering practical strategies and innovative solutions for dispute resolution.

Charting New Currents…in ADR best practice:
Industry leaders and ADR experts engage in riveting debates on cutting-edge topics, exploring ‘what is’ and ‘what could be’ in global ADR best practices.

The Art of Navigation:
Distinguished jurists and other thought leaders dive into the essential elements of persuasion, guiding you to master effective dispute resolution across practice areas.

Global Tides of Innovation:
Discover how courts and tribunals worldwide are leveraging ADR to deliver ‘Tidal Wave’ access to justice. Learn what’s new and consider what can flow into your jurisdiction.

Hot Topics:
Environmental Disputes and Climate Challenges – explore lessons from the past and innovative approaches for navigating the future of ADR in this critical area.

Sailing Toward Durable Outcomes:
Multi-award-winning practitioners offer a deep dive into the craft of creating workable and sustainable settlement agreements.

Expanding Horizons:
Interdisciplinary panels and workshops help you build your global ADR practice and broaden your reach in uncharted territories.

Full programme coming soon

Register HERE to Receive Updates

ADR Conference Cocktail Reception

1 May 2025

Pier One

Thursday, 1 May 2025 5:00pm–6:00pm (AEST)

Are you ready to grow your network?

Catch up with old friends and colleagues, and create new connections in your field, at the ADR Conference Cocktail Reception, directly following the Conference programme. This is an exclusive event for conference delegates only.

Coffee & Connections @ Lockhart Chambers

Another exclusive event for ADR Conference delegates

2 May 2025

Friday, 2 May 2024 10:00am–12.30pm (AEDT)

ADC warmly invites Conference delegates to dive into an exclusive ‘Open House’ at our stunning premises in the heart of Sydney’s dispute resolution and legal district – 233 Macquarie Street. Immerse yourself in networking opportunities, enjoy coffee, and hear from our Special Guest Speaker at 11.00 am.

In line with the Oceans Nine: Powering the Surge in Global Dispute Resolution theme, explore the depths of collaboration as you connect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and chart new paths for business partnerships. For those who appreciate art, ADC proudly showcases masterpieces from Australia’s renowned Ken Hinds Art Collection, reflecting the rich cultural currents of our nation.

Don’t miss this additional chance to anchor your conference experience – relax, network, and let inspiration flow in a truly unique setting.

9th Annual Australian
ADR Awards Gala Dinner

The night of nights for Australia’s Dispute Resolution Community

Friday, 2 May 2025 6.30pm–10.30pm (AEST)

Australian National Maritime Museum, Darling Harbour

The Australian ADR Awards celebrate excellence in dispute resolution and the vital contributions of ADR practitioners to civil society. This year’s Gala Dinner, perfectly aligns with our theme Oceans Nine: Powering the Surge in Global Dispute Resolution. Join us at the stunning Australian National Maritime Museum, on Sydney’s iconic Darling Harbour.

This is the not-to-be-missed social event of Australia’s ADR calendar. Full of dynamism, excitement, and purpose, the evening pairs exquisite dining and fine wine with show-stopping performances that capture the essence of innovation and collaboration in dispute resolution. Past highlights have included the Conservatorium of Music, Royal Australian Navy Band, Bangarra Dance Theatre, and didgeridoo master William Barton. Prepare to be enthralled by this year’s captivating performances, as we celebrate in a venue that embodies the maritime spirit and currents powering global dispute resolution.

For those who are keen to ‘row-on’ following the Gala Dinner, the legendary ADR Awards’ After-Party is back on at The Gold Bar at Tatler (until the wee small hours).

Registrations opening soon

Regsiter Here to Receive Updates