Our vision

Tough Talks was founded on the premise that many disputes can be solved constructively, without the need to resort to litigation. This approach to conflict resolution highlights the potential for mutual understanding and respect as a means to solve disagreements amicably. By emphasizing communication, empathy, and active listening, Tough Talks aims to bridge gaps between opposing parties, fostering a collaborative environment where solutions are reached through positive dialogue rather than combative legal battles.

Mediation is not only more cost-effective compared to court proceedings, but it also tends to yield faster resolutions, allowing all involved to move forward without the lingering stress that often accompanies protracted legal conflicts. Moreover, Tough Talks aims to preserve relationships that might otherwise be damaged by adversarial litigation processes, which is particularly valuable in disputes involving business partners, neighbours, or family members.

By creating a safe space for parties to express their views and concerns, and by guiding the conversation towards constructive compromise, Tough Talks demonstrates that many issues we might assume require a legal remedy can indeed be resolved through open and honest conversation.

Our mission

We are committed ourselves to a singular purpose: to deliver mediation services that stand out for their speed, efficiency, and budget-friendliness. We understand that cost is often a pivotal factor when you’re looking for dispute resolution services, which is why we are committed to transparency in our fee structure. You’ll find no hidden charges or unexpected fees when you choose to work with us.

In an increasingly digital world, flexibility is key to accessibility. That’s why we’ve expanded our offerings to include both in-person and online services. Whether you prefer the immediacy of face-to-face interactions or the convenience of digital communication, we provide tailored solutions to meet your mediation needs. Harnessing the power of the latest technologies, our online services are designed to be just as effective and personal as our in-person sessions.

By bridging the gap between traditional techniques and modern methods, we stand at the forefront of mediation services, dedicated to solving conflicts in the most straightforward and pain-free manner possible. Our clients benefit from our approach that blends professionalism with a personal touch, offering a path to resolution that’s both humane and results-oriented.

Principal mediator

Rob Lilley

Rob is a lawyer with over a decade of experience in civil and commercial litigation. Seeing a real need for cost-effective alternatives to traditional adversarial litigation, Rob trained to become a mediator and created Tough Talks Mediation to offer people a way to resolve disputes quickly and cost-effectively.

Rob is:

• accredited under the National Mediator Accreditation System (NMAS) since 2017.
• a professional member of the Resolution Institute.
• a panel mediator for the:
  • Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA),
  • Citizens Advice Bureau of WA Inc.,
  • Department of Justice Aboriginal Mediation Service,
  • Law Society of Western Australia, and
  • Small Business Development Corporation.
• a member of the Law Society of Western Australia Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee.

Consultant mediator

Dr Andrew Cichy

Dr Andrew Cichy is a mediator with professional accreditation through the National Mediator Accreditation System (NMAS). 

With substantial experience in leading change and de-escalating conflict in the not-for-profit, education and cultural sectors, he has supported individuals, boards, and organisations in consensus-directed negotiation.

By ensuring that the mediation process is respectful and safe, Dr Cichy supports parties in taking an open, practical and creative approach to problem solving.

Dr Cichy was appointed to the Mental Health Tribunal of Western Australia and as a member of the Mediation Panel of the Small Business Development Corporation in 2023.

His strong research background – for which he was awarded a Clarendon Scholarship to study at the University of Oxford – means he is also in demand as a consultant, helping  organisations to achieve clarity about their root causes of their challenges, opportunities and vision.

QUALIFICATIONS AND ACCREDITATIONS

• Accredited NMAS Mediator
• Graduate (GAICD), Australian Institute of Company Directors
• Senior Fellow (SFHEA), Higher Education Academy
• Health and Safety Representative (WHSQ) Certification
• DPhil & MSt, University of Oxford (Clarendon Scholar)
• Bachelor of Commerce, University of Western Australia
• Justice of the Peace (Qual), Queensland