The RTA is a regulator and is therefore committed to conducting investigations in a way that is fair and equitable to both parties. The RTA does not take sides.  

Investigators are unable to recover bond money. If you are trying to recover money owed, you will need to lodge a Dispute resolution request.  If the dispute resolution process is unsuccessful the matter may be taken to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). 

Each case is different and assessed on its merits. Whilst the circumstances of your case may have been difficult, the aim of an investigation is to increase the level of future compliance as opposed to retaliation.  

An investigation may take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity and seriousness of the case. Timeframes may be longer during peak periods. The Investigator will discuss individual case length with each customer.  

Investigations that proceed to prosecution may take over a year to finalise at court.   

An investigation is a process where the RTA as a regulator determines if an offence occurred. An investigation may be initiated via a request from a customer or as a proactive program of work eg: an examination of documents. The outcome of the investigation is focused on future compliance.  

Dispute resolution provides free conciliation to help people resolve tenancy disputes. The conciliation process is confidential. The conciliator does not provide the information shared in the process if the matter later forms part of an investigation.

It is alleged that you committed an offence under the Act. As a regulator, the RTA is examining the evidence and as part of the process we will ask for your version of events. Please carefully read the allegation letter carefully as it outlines the process and your options.  

The RTA can receive anonymous investigation requests however will be unable to investigate the matter if it relates directly to a tenancy. The RTA requires the ability to speak with both parties to an investigation in order to determine whether an offence has occurred.  

If you have been issued a Notice to Leave you have 4 weeks to apply to QCAT to contest the Notice. Information is available on retaliatory evictions. 

An investigation will not prevent an eviction from happening.    

Customers can make an investigation request to the OFT about licensed property managers who have:

• used rent money for another purpose within the tenancy (e.g. to cover a water bill or to pay for repairs)
• failed to lodge a bond with the RTA.

However, if the investigation request involves another matter in addition to the offences mentioned above (e.g. unlawful entry), the request should be made in full to the RTA. The RTA also retains all other investigation requests under the RTRA Act, including all investigations into alleged offenses committed by a private lessor or tenant.