The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (DSCV) assists the Geelong community by providing an informal, impartial and accessible dispute resolution service.
Using DSCV services to resolve a dispute is a cheaper and simpler alternative to taking disputes through the courts. The service can help to improve and maintain positive relationships with neighbours, community and friends.
Dispute Assessment Officers provide dispute resolution advice and mediation services to assist residents in the Barwon South-west region to settle disputes in a free, confidential and fair manner.
The officers can help with issues involving difficult or anti-social behaviour, personal safety intervention order matters, bullying, fences, noise, animals, trees and drainage. They listen to concerns, help clarify issues, answer questions and work with residents to provide options and strategies for resolving the dispute.
DSCV may also offer to contact the other person and invite them to participate in mediation. Staff conduct a full assessment with everyone involved to see if the dispute is suitable for mediation. The whole process can be done over the telephone or in person.
Dispute Assessment Officers are available at the Geelong Justice Service Centre, Level 5, State Government Offices 30 Little Malop Street, Geelong or by phone 5215-8591 or 1300-372-888.