Reflecting on the ACICA Arbitration Rules 2021

Table of contents

• Original news
• What was the background to the review of the ACICA Rules?
• Significant changes and practical implications
• Virtual hearings and electronic communication
• Consolidation and multi-contract disputes
• Early dismissal
• Third-party funding disclosures
• Time limit for rendering an award
• Costs
• Observations

Article summary

Arbitration analysis: Bronwyn Lincoln, partner, and Mariam Francis, lawyer, at Corrs Chambers Westgarth, comment on the recently launched Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration (ACICA) Arbitration Rules 2021 (2021 ACICA Rules), which took effect from 1 April 2021. The changes in the 2021 ACICA Rules relevantly coincide with developments in online practices due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and ‘aim to further enhance the arbitration experience for all users’. The amendments introduce changes to the use of technology, procedures for the early dismissal of disputes, requirements for disclosure of third-party funding arrangements, expanded procedures for consolidation (including for multi-contract disputes), and increased powers to the tribunal to award costs during the arbitral proceedings.