Ciarb Australia is pleased to offer the Introduction to International Arbitration course on Wednesday, 13 May 2026.

Considering a career as an international arbitrator? Or, interested in learning more about international arbitration? Either way, this course is the perfect place to start.

Dive into the rich history of international arbitration. Discover the intricate process and procedures of this dynamic field; and gain insight into how international arbitration fits into the broader spectrum of dispute resolution methods.

A day-long in-person course, candidates will experience the benefits of peer-to-peer networking and support, and tutoring from esteemed arbitrators and counsel.

*Please note course candidates will be able to attend the Avoiding Detours and Procedural Roadblocks in Arbitration CPD event following the course at Pinsent Masons free of charge.

What is the aim of the course?

To provide an understanding of the general principles of international (i.e. non-domestic) arbitration and its relationship to other dispute resolution processes. The course will provide candidates with an introduction to the legal framework of, and good practice and procedure in, international arbitration in their jurisdiction.

What are the learning outcomes?

On successful completion of this course candidates will be able to:

• Understand the background to international arbitration;
• Describe the process and procedure of international arbitration; and
• Understand international arbitration in the context of other forms of dispute resolution.

What is covered within the syllabus?

• Comparison of dispute resolution procedures;
• Fundamental principles of the international arbitration process;
• The UNCITRAL Model Law and Arbitration Rules;
• Arbitration rules: institutional and ad hoc agreements;
• Arbitration procedures: documents only and oral hearings;
• The legal framework: the importance of the seat, the New York Convention, procedural laws, and procedural rules;
• The arbitration agreement;
• Commencement of the arbitration;
• An arbitrator’s jurisdiction and powers;
• The arbitration process: obligations of the tribunal, responsibilities and obligations of the parties;
• Managing the arbitration process: communications, preliminary meeting, interlocutory matters, dealing with factual and opinion evidence and disclosure of documents including introduction to the IBA Guidelines;
• Presenting the claim and the defence: alternative methods;
• Procedure at a typical hearing, including contrasting common and civil law jurisdictions;
• Costs and interest: alternative approaches in different jurisdictions; and
• Essentials of an enforceable award.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no entry requirements. The course is intended for candidates who:

• are new to the field of international arbitration;
• wish to learn more about international arbitration and its benefits to users;
• wish to become an Associate member of Ciarb.

English Language Competence – Ciarb training and assessment is carried out in English it is therefore essential that candidates are proficient in both written and spoken English.  Where English is not a candidate’s first language it is recommended that they have achieved a standard that is, as a minimum, equivalent to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) level 7 or a score of 94-101 in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) system. Ciarb issues this advice as a guideline and, while it will not require any evidence of this standard prior to enrolment on a course, candidates who do not have this standard of English may be disadvantaged.

How will I be assessed?

Candidates on the course are expected to sit the online multiple-choice assessment (available to book separately). Candidates will be given login details to access the online platform and then have 28 days to complete and submit the assessment, and must achieve a minimum overall mark of 55% to pass.

The assessment fee of GBP £72 is not included in the course fee and is to be paid to Ciarb HQ directly, no later than 8 days in advance of the assessment start date. Details on how to do so will be sent via email from Ciarb HQ.

How is the course delivered?

The Introduction to Arbitration Course will be delivered over one day and in-person.

What is the course fee and what does it include?

The course fee per candidate is AUD $550 (incl GST). 

What happens when I register for the course?

Upon successful registration on the course, candidates will receive confirmation they are booked on the course. Joining instructions and course materials will be provided approximately two weeks before the course start date. Candidates will be provided with an electronic copy of a Workbook to assist them with their studies together with a suggested reading list.

What is Ciarb’s policy on cancellation of courses?

Ciarb reserves the right to cancel or change the date, venue or content of courses and the names of speakers, lecturers and tutors. Candidates will be provided with adequate notice of any change. If Ciarb has to cancel a course, candidates will be provided with a full refund or the opportunity to transfer their registration to the next course. Should a candidate wish to cancel their registration of a course, notification must be sent in writing to info@ciarb.net.au. Cancellation charges apply. Please click here for the full Terms and Conditions.

What is my next step when I complete the course and pass the assessment?

• You may progress onto Module 1 of the International Arbitration Pathway;
• You will be eligible to apply for Associate grade of Ciarb, and take advantage of a range of educational and professional benefits.

Important Dates

• Course Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 29 April 2026
• Assessment Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 29 April 2026
• Course Date: Wednesday, 13 May 2026
• Release of Post Course Online Assessment: Thursday, 14 May 2026

Candidates will receive a Welcome Pack which will include course schedule and logistics upon registration.

For further information, please contact:
Gianna Totaro
Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Australia) Limited
Email: info@ciarb.net.au