Jimmy you are indeed correct. The plaintiff (applicant) needs to have “attempted” Mediation ie applied for, received a hearing date and appeared in person or via phone/video (as Strata Mediation requires).
After the Mediation session, the Mediator will send both parties a letter confirming what transpired ie both turned up; or one party did not and what if anything was agreed between the parties. In the absence of an agreement between the parties (that satisfies the applicant) it is that letter that opens the door to allowing the plaintiff to apply to the Tribunal.