When should you go to tribunal?
Applying to tribunal is appropriate when you and your landlord cannot resolve a dispute directly, and the issue is significant enough to warrant a formal hearing. Common grounds for tribunal applications include: bond disputes, unlawful eviction, failure to carry out repairs, unlawful rent increases, and disputes about the condition of the property.
Before applying to tribunal, try to resolve the dispute in writing first. A paper trail showing your attempts to resolve the issue directly will help your case and may be required before your application is processed.
State tribunals at a glance
Each state has its own tribunal for residential tenancy disputes:
| State | Tribunal | Website |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) | ncat.nsw.gov.au |
| VIC | Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) | vcat.vic.gov.au |
| QLD | Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) | qcat.qld.gov.au |
| WA | Magistrates Court (tenancy) | magistratescourt.wa.gov.au |
| SA | South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) | sacat.sa.gov.au |
| ACT | ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) | acat.act.gov.au |
| TAS | Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TasCAT) | tascat.tas.gov.au |
| NT | Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT) | ntcat.nt.gov.au |
Step 1 — Gather your evidence
Before filing your application, collect all relevant documents:
- •Your tenancy agreement (lease)
- •All written communication with the landlord/agent (emails, texts, letters)
- •Condition reports from start and end of tenancy
- •Photographs (dated) of the property
- •Receipts for any repairs or cleaning you arranged
- •Bond lodgement receipt
- •Rent payment records
Step 2 — Complete the application form
Each tribunal has an online application form. For tenancy matters, select the correct application type — most tribunals have a specific category for residential tenancy disputes. You will need to describe the dispute, state what outcome you are seeking (e.g., bond refund, repair order, compensation), and pay the application fee.
Step 3 — Pay the fee
Application fees for tenancy disputes are generally modest — typically $50–$100 depending on the state and the type of application. Fee waivers may be available if you are experiencing financial hardship. The fee does not determine who wins — you can apply for the other party to pay the fee as part of the order.
Step 4 — Attend the hearing
After filing, you will be notified of a hearing date. Hearings for tenancy disputes are generally informal compared to court proceedings. You do not need a lawyer, though you may bring one. Prepare a clear summary of your case and bring copies of all your evidence for the tribunal member and the other party.
Many tribunals offer telephone or video hearings for straightforward disputes. This can be convenient if the property is in a different location from where you now live.
Step 5 — The outcome
After the hearing, the tribunal will make a legally binding decision (order). This may include orders for payment of money, specific repairs, bond refund, or termination of tenancy. If the other party does not comply with a tribunal order, you can take further enforcement action.
This guide provides general information based on current Australian tenancy legislation. It is not legal advice. Always verify with the relevant state tenancy authority or a qualified professional for your specific situation. Last verified: January 2026.