The state government has launched a new dispute resolution service for small business, following the appointment of Small Business Commissioner David Eaton.
The Small Business Development Corporation said the new alternative dispute resolution (ADR) service would cover all types of disagreements relating to unfair market practices.
The service will also provide information and advice regarding rights and obligations, and also provide access to subsidised mediation where appropriate.
Mr Eaton said the service was based on a model used in Victoria, which was then tailored to meet the needs of Western Australian business.
“At the heart of the ADR service is a hands-on, timely, uncomplicated means of resolving business disputes thereby reducing the need to go to court,” Mr Eaton said.
Mr Eaton said he would take a practical approach to disputes in an effort to provide resolutions.
“I will work to build relationships across industries, not only working with small businesses but engaging with large businesses and their representatives to ensure they too understand their rights and responsibilities,” he said.
‘If business conduct issues are identified that are not being adequately dealt with through existing measures, I will have the capacity to bring these matters to the government’s attention.”
