How to Take a Small Claim to a Tribunal in Australia

What Are Civil and Administrative Tribunals?

Each state and territory has a tribunal that handles low-cost, accessible dispute resolution for:

• Consumer disputes (faulty goods, services not delivered)
• Residential tenancy disputes
• Strata and neighbourhood disputes
• Home building disputes
• Minor civil claims (debt recovery, property damage)

State/Territory	Tribunal
NSW	NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)
VIC	Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)
QLD	Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)
WA	State Administrative Tribunal (SAT)
SA	South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)
TAS	Magistrates Court (Civil Division)
ACT	ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT)
NT	Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT)

Types of Claims

Consumer claims (goods and services): goods that are faulty, services not completed, deposits not refunded. Usually handled in the consumer and commercial division with a dollar limit of $40,000–$100,000 depending on the state.

Tenancy claims: bond disputes, rent arrears, repairs, lease termination. Usually handled in the tenancy division with no dollar limit on some types.

How to File

1. Complete the application form on the tribunal's website
2. Pay the filing fee (typically $35–$150 depending on claim amount and state)
3. Serve the application on the other party (the tribunal usually handles this)
4. Attend a conciliation (settlement attempt) and/or hearing

Do You Need a Lawyer?

Generally no. Tribunals are designed so that parties can represent themselves. Lawyers are sometimes excluded from the lower tiers. The tribunal member (judge) will guide the process.

What Orders Can a Tribunal Make?

• Payment of money
• Repair, replacement, or refund of goods
• Completion of services
• Restraining orders
• Dismissal of the claim

Tribunal orders are legally binding and can be enforced like court orders.