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How to Become An Arbitrator

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What is a Arbitrator

An arbitrator is a neutral expert who helps people and businesses resolve disputes without going to court. They listen to both sides, weigh the evidence, and make a binding decision called an award.

Arbitrators handle many types of disputes: commercial contracts, construction claims, and workplace conflicts. Their awards are legally binding in Australia.

On a typical day, an arbitrator reviews documents, runs hearings, and writes detailed decisions. Strong communication and analytical skills are a must.

More Australians and businesses are choosing arbitration over court. Demand for skilled arbitrators is growing. It is a great path for anyone who cares about fairness, the law, and practical problem-solving.

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Career Outlook for Arbitrator

Arbitration is growing fast in Australia. More businesses choose it over lengthy court proceedings to resolve disputes quickly and at lower cost. The role suits experienced legal professionals who want to use their skills in an independent, high-level way.

Arbitrators are typically senior practitioners. Many enter the field after 10 or more years of legal practice. Recent Australian data shows legal professionals in dispute resolution work around 43 hours per week, with most in full-time roles. Women now make up over 60% of the legal workforce in Australia (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

The outlook for arbitrators is positive. Demand is set to grow as commercial contracts increasingly include arbitration clauses. International arbitration seated in Australia is also rising, supported by institutions such as ACICA. This is a niche but high-value career path with strong long-term prospects.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

How to Become an Arbitrator in Australia

Step 1: Complete a law degree

Start with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or Juris Doctor (JD) at an Australian university. These degrees take 3–5 years full-time. They cover contract law, civil procedure, evidence, and dispute resolution. A law degree is the foundation for almost all arbitration careers in Australia.

Step 2: Gain admission to the legal profession

After graduating, complete Practical Legal Training (PLT) through a law school or approved provider. This takes 6–12 months. Then apply for admission as a lawyer through the Supreme Court in your state or territory. You will also need a practising certificate from your state Law Society.

Step 3: Build practical legal experience

Work as a lawyer for at least 5–10 years before taking on arbitration roles. Focus on commercial litigation, construction law, or employment law. Arbitrators must understand complex legal disputes from the inside before they can decide them on their own.

Step 4: Complete specialist arbitration training

Enrol in arbitration training through the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Australia (CIArb) or the Resolution Institute. CIArb offers a structured pathway from Associate to Fellow, including the Award Writing course and the Diploma in International Arbitration. Training can take 1–3 years depending on your chosen pathway. Check current course offerings at ciarb.net.au.

Step 5: Obtain professional accreditation

Apply for membership and accreditation through CIArb Australia or the Resolution Institute. Accreditation as a Chartered Arbitrator (C.Arb) from CIArb is widely recognised in Australia and internationally. This shows you meet a professional standard and helps clients and panels find you for appointments.

Step 6: Join professional bodies and build your practice

Join CIArb Australia, the Resolution Institute, and relevant state law bodies. Attend industry events and accept smaller appointments to build experience. Register with panels such as the Australian Disputes Centre or ACICA. Your reputation and network are your main sources of work as an independent arbitrator.

What does an Arbitrator do?

An arbitrator’s day is varied and fast-paced. They start by reviewing case files and legal documents before hearings. During hearings, they guide talks between parties, listen to each side, and ask questions to clarify key issues. After hearings, they draft binding awards and explain their reasoning clearly. Throughout each case, they stay neutral and manage the process so all parties feel heard. Strong research, writing, and communication skills are used every day in this role.

Tasks

An arbitrator acts as a neutral third party who resolves disputes outside the court system. They handle commercial, construction, and workplace conflicts. Their focus is always on fairness, impartiality, and an efficient path to resolution.

  • Conducts hearings — Listens to both parties present evidence and arguments.
  • Reviews evidence — Analyses documents, contracts, and other relevant materials.
  • Researches legal precedents — Investigates applicable laws and prior rulings.
  • Drafts arbitration awards — Prepares written decisions that explain the outcome and reasoning.
  • Facilitates negotiations — Encourages dialogue so parties can reach a settlement early.
  • Maintains neutrality — Treats all parties fairly and stays impartial throughout the process.
  • Communicates findings — Explains decisions clearly so all parties understand the outcome.
  • Attends professional development — Keeps up with legal trends and best practice in arbitration.

Skills for Success

To work as an arbitrator, you need strong analytical and legal skills. You must weigh evidence and make fair decisions based on the facts and the law.

Clear communication is a must. You write detailed awards and run hearings where you must stay calm and fair. Emotional intelligence helps you manage tension between parties. Attention to detail and good organisational skills keep complex cases on track.

Skills & Attributes

  • Sound knowledge of legal principles and procedures
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Impartiality and fairness in decision-making
  • Conflict resolution and negotiation
  • Attention to detail when reviewing case materials
  • Organisational skills for managing timelines and documents
  • Emotional intelligence and calm under pressure
  • Research skills across case law and statutes
  • Experience in mediation or dispute resolution
  • Strong interpersonal skills for managing parties
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development

Average Salaries

The average yearly salary for an arbitrator in Australia is around $130,000 (SalaryExpert, 2026). Pay varies by experience and whether arbitration is a full-time or added role. Entry-level practitioners earn around $95,000 a year. Senior arbitrators can earn over $220,000.

min $95 K

max $220 K

av $130 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.