The National Alternative Dispute Resolution Advisory Council (NADRAC) was established in 1995 as an independent body to provide the Attorney-General with policy advice on the development of ways of resolving or managing disputes without a judicial decision.

On 13 June 2008 the Attorney-General wrote to NADRAC requesting that it enquire into and identify strategies to remove barriers and provide incentives for greater use of ADR as an alternative to civil proceedings and during the court or tribunal process. The letter of reference also asks NADRAC to provide advice on initiatives the government might take to support the recommended strategies, including legislative action.