The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) decides a range of tenancy disputes.

Before applying to QCAT, tenants and property manager/owners must:

• try to resolve the dispute directly, and
• go through the RTA dispute resolution process (unless it is an urgent matter)

If the dispute cannot be resolved, the RTA will issue a Notice of unresolved dispute. The person who lodged the dispute resolution request can choose to apply for a QCAT hearing.

Find out more about residential tenancy disputes and the application process at QCAT, including time limits applicable and frequently asked questions.

Parties are encouraged to view QCAT’s Practice Direction No.4 of 2023, Applications for Residential Tenancy Disputes which outlines what each party must do prior to and at a residential tenancy dispute hearing in order for QCAT to deal with the matter in a way that is informed, fair and efficient.

Paperwork required

• Notice of unresolved dispute (unless it is an urgent matter)
• QCAT application forms (QCAT, 1300 753 228 or local Magistrates court).

Lodging a QCAT application

Lodge the application and Notice of unresolved dispute with QCAT and pay the filing fee. Provide 3 copies of the application to QCAT (one for QCAT, one for the applicant and one for the respondent).

QCAT will then notify the applicant and respondent of the hearing.

Visit the QCAT website for more information.

Assistance

Additional assistance can be provided by organisations for tenants, property managers and property owners.