Justice Health NSW sets benchmark in government dispute resolution
Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network (Justice Health NSW) has been recognised as Australia’s leading government agency for alternative dispute resolution (ADR), taking out top honours at the Australian Disputes Centre’s 10th Annual Australian ADR Awards.
The Australian ADR Awards recognise the significant contributions of both individuals and teams who are delivering excellence in the field of Alternative Dispute Resolution.
Justice Health NSW won the Government ADR Practice Group of the Year category, which celebrates excellence in alternative dispute resolution across local, state, and federal government agencies.
The award acknowledges teams that deliver timely, cost-effective, and confidential dispute resolution outcomes through innovative ADR strategies and processes.
Justice Health NSW Director of People and Culture, Tracy-Lee Varga, said the recognition reflects the dedication and impact of the People and Culture team.
“It’s an honour to receive this prestigious award and to see our team recognised for the exceptional work they do every day to support staff across Justice Health NSW,” Ms Varga said.
The organisation’s ADR program represents a significant transformation in conflict management culture. Specifically, Justice Health NSW has:
- implemented a structured, evidence-based mediation framework
- accredited HR Business Partners as mediators
- embedded ADR practices into everyday leadership.
“At Justice Health NSW, we deliver healthcare to adults and young people who are in contact with the criminal justice system across NSW.”
“Our people are our most essential asset and it’s essential that we keep them engaged and supported at work so that we can continue to support our patients,” Ms Varga said.
These initiatives have enabled the organisation to resolve complex and long-standing disputes more efficiently, achieving measurable improvements in grievance resolution, workplace relationships, and organisational culture.