Rule 83 – Formal communications Default
255.Rule 83 provides default rules for the means of intimating certain formal notices or documents under the arbitration agreement or in the course of arbitral proceedings, in the event that this is not already agreed between the parties. References in the Act to “notifying” things are caught by rule 83 as it applies to “notice” having to be given. Rule 83(2) provides that the “formal communication” as defined in rule 83(1) must be in writing. Rule 83(3) makes provision for the delivery of a formal communication and rule 83(4) provides that any electronic communication will be treated as being in writing only if it gets to its destination in a readable state and can be used as a record. Rule 83(5) provides for where formal communication is to be deemed to have been made, given or served.
256.Rule 83(6) provides that where it is not reasonably practicable for formal communication to be made, given or served, the arbitrator will have the power to determine that another means of intimation is used or for dispensing with intimation. This will allow the arbitrator to move the arbitral process along and will also reduce court involvement. Specific provision for review by the court on this matter has not been made but in some cases the general provisions in Part 8 on challenging the decision of an arbitrator might be relevant.
257.Rule 83(7) means that the rule only applies to documents which are being intimated under the arbitration agreement or as part of the arbitration proceedings. If the documents relate to proceedings of the court, then the rules of court in relation to delivery and service of documents will apply.