Mediations are private meetings where parties come together to discuss ways to reach an agreement (settle) with the help of a mediator. \r\r The mediator does not make a decision in the case. Their role is to help you and the other party to agree on a resolution at the mediation, instead of VCAT deciding the case for you at a hearing. \r\r If you and the other party aren’t able to resolve your dispute at a mediation, you may need to attend a VCAT hearing at a later date. \r\r A hearing allows all parties in a dispute to present their case, ask questions and provide evidence. A VCAT member listens and makes a decision to resolve the dispute, either at the end of the hearing or in writing later. \r\r More about mediations