(1) The parties to a dispute may engage in mediation as a means of attempting to resolve the dispute.

(2) Participation in mediation shall be voluntary at all times.

(3) The fact that proceedings have been issued in relation to the dispute shall not prevent the parties engaging in mediation at any time prior to the resolution of the dispute.

(4) A party may -

(a) withdraw from the mediation at any time during the mediation,

(b) be accompanied to the mediation, and assisted by, a person (including a legal advisor) who is not a party, or

(c) obtain independent legal advice at any time during the mediation.

(5) Subject to subsection (4)(a), the mediator and the parties shall, having regard to the nature of the dispute, make every reasonable effort to conclude the mediation in an expeditious manner which is likely to minimise costs.