Effective June 1, 2025, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) is launching a mandatory mediation process. Mediations have proven to be very successful in resolving applications at the HRTO and are aligned with the HRTO’s mandate, which encourages resolution through alternative dispute resolution methods rather than traditional adversarial approaches.
For all HRTO applications received on or after June 1, 2025, a mediation shall be scheduled as a standard practice in every file. Parties can request an exemption for exceptional circumstances.
To enable this process change, effective June 1, 2025, the HRTO is adding a revised Rule 15 to its Rules of Procedure , to replace the earlier version.
The HRTO is also updating the following forms:
- Form 1: Application
- Form 1G: Application
- Form 2: Response
- Form 10: Request for an Order During Proceedings
- Form 11: Response to a Request for an Order
- Form 25: Confirmation of Settlement
- Confidentiality Agreement
The updated forms will be available on the HRTO’s Forms and filing page. Effective June 15, 2025, the HRTO will no longer accept the previous versions of these forms. If older forms are submitted to the HRTO, they will not be accepted and will be returned to the party or their representative.
Parties to applications filed before June 1, 2025, can continue to seek mediation on a voluntary basis. Parties are always encouraged to mediate, but if one or both parties are not interested in mediation, the application will proceed through the tribunal’s processes.
Adjournments, rescheduling and extension requests
The HRTO is also updating its processes for managing adjournments, rescheduling and extension requests. These changes will create a more predictable and consistent tribunal process and help ensure that cases proceed in a more timely manner, improving overall efficiency.
On June 1, 2025, the Practice Direction on Scheduling of Hearings and Mediations, Rescheduling Requests, and Requests for Adjournments will be replaced by the following new Practice Directions:
- Practice Direction on Rescheduling and Adjournment Requests
- Practice Direction on Extension Requests
The Practice Direction on Rescheduling and Adjournment Requests and the Practice Direction on Extension Requests apply to all applications filed at the HRTO, including previously filed applications.
Consultation process and further details
The HRTO consulted on proposed changes to its Rules of Procedure with stakeholders in late 2024 and April 2025. A number of refinements were made to address feedback we received and to ensure that the new Rules and Practice Directions meet user and stakeholder needs. Thanks to all those who participated in the consultation.
For more information, see the Information Sheets regarding the Change from Voluntary Mediation to Mandatory Mediation , Updates to Rescheduling and Adjournment Requests , and Updates to Extension Requests .