Land Court Seeks Mediators: Mediation in South Africa

Mediation Academy
Jul 14
3 min read

Updated: Jul 16

South Africa’s newly established Land Court is actively seeking trained mediators to help resolve complex land disputes in South Africa, particularly under laws like ESTA and the Restitution of Land Rights Act. In this blog, we explore the Court’s public call for applications, what mediation in South Africa entails, who qualifies to apply, and why mediation is becoming a critical method of ensuring alternative dispute resolution in South Africa. Whether you're a law graduate, social worker, or experienced mediator, this post outlines everything you need to know about contributing to this transformative legal process through accredited mediator training in South Africa.

Brick exterior of the South African Land Claims Court building, featuring two windows and a purple flowering tree. Bright, sunny setting symbolises justice and transparency in land dispute resolution. — Land Claims Court: SA

What is the Land Court looking for, and how can aspiring mediators get involved?

The newly formed Land Court is encouraging applications from trained and accredited mediators to help resolve disputes involving land tenure and restitution. This marks a significant opportunity for anyone pursuing dispute resolution jobs in South Africa. Legal professionals, social workers, and trained mediators can now be part of a nationwide effort to handle emotionally charged land claims in a fair and constructive manner. The use of alternative dispute resolution in South Africa, especially mediation, can help ease the pressure on the courts and better serve communities.

Why the Land Court Needs Mediators

Created under the Land Court Act No. 6 of 2023, the Land Court handles complex legal issues involving land, often governed by laws such as:

Extension of Security of Tenure Act (ESTA)
Land Reform (Labour Tenants) Act
Restitution of Land Rights Act

These cases require more than legal resolution—they need processes that consider the emotional, social, and cultural contexts. That’s where mediation in South Africa plays a vital role. According to the Department of Justice, court-annexed mediation boosts access to justice while reducing backlog and fostering reconciliation.

Role and Responsibilities of Land Court Mediators

Land Court mediators will assist parties in communicating effectively and finding common ground. Responsibilities include:

Guiding parties through structured dialogue
Clarifying their rights under land-related legislation
Drafting written agreements to be made orders of the court

The mediator’s role is neutral and facilitative, making it an ideal position for individuals skilled in resolving conflict and working across communities.

Four circular blue icons representing Land Court mediator applicants: a graduation cap for law graduates, a heart with a helping hand for social workers, a map marker for land dispute experience, and a checkmark for accredited mediators. Clean design conveys clarity and professionalism. — Who can apply?

Who Can Apply?

The Court is especially looking for:

Law graduates with knowledge of human rights, land reform, or mediation
Social workers or professionals with formal mediation training
Mediators with experience in land or housing disputes
Accredited professionals who follow ethical and legal mediation standards

You do not need to be a practising lawyer to apply. The Court values a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds, provided you hold accredited mediator training in South Africa.

How to Apply

Applications close on 1 August 2025.

You must submit:

A cover letter
CV
Mediation or conflict resolution certificates
References, including one from a past mediation case

Send your documents to: LanCApplications@judiciary.org.za

For questions, contact: VMaqalal@judiciary.org.za

Why This Matters for Your Mediation Career

This initiative offers a career-defining chance to make a real impact. Land disputes in South Africa often affect marginalised communities. Mediators in these cases play a vital role in upholding justice and restoring dignity.

Whether you're new to mediation or looking to specialise, this is an excellent entry point into public-sector dispute resolution jobs and advocacy. The need for accredited, culturally aware professionals has never been greater.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Land Court in South Africa?

The Land Court was established under the Land Court Act No. 6 of 2023 to hear cases related to land disputes, including those under laws like the Extension of Security of Tenure Act (ESTA) and the Restitution of Land Rights Act.

2. What does a Land Court mediator do?

A Land Court mediator helps parties involved in land disputes resolve their issues through structured dialogue. The mediator guides communication, ensures legal understanding, and helps draft agreements, without imposing a decision.

Do I need to be a lawyer to apply?

No. You do not need to be a practising attorney. Applicants with backgrounds in law, social work, or mediation (With relevant accredited training) are encouraged to apply.

4. Is mediation experience required?

While previous experience is an advantage, accredited training in mediation or conflict resolution is essential. Experience with land reform or community disputes will strengthen your application.