From the Ombudsman Kate Carnell AO
The Office of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) received a request for assistance from a small business that is in dispute with BNG Logistics Australia Pty Ltd (Bait'N'Go).
After unsuccessful attempts at pre-meditation, under subsection 71(4) of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Act 2015, our Office recommended the parties attend mediation in order to resolve the matter.
Despite this recommendation, ΅ώ²ΉΎ±³ΩβNβG΄Η did not fully engage in an arranged mediation, and has refused to attend a subsequent mediation.
I am extremely disappointed in ΅ώ²ΉΎ±³ΩβNβG΄Ηβs lack of engagement and refusal to mediate, considering I believe that mediation is the most effective way to resolve a matter of this nature, provides a fair outcome and avoids costly litigation.
I continue to encourage ΅ώ²ΉΎ±³ΩβNβG΄Η to reconsider its decision to refuse mediation.