Which tribunal do I use for my claim?

NCAT (NSW), VCAT (VIC), QCAT (QLD), SAT (WA), SACAT (SA), ACAT (ACT), NTCAT (NT). The tribunal depends on your state, the type of dispute, and the claim amount. Claim Done's AI determines the correct tribunal automatically.

How much does a tribunal application cost?

Claim Done charges $79 for a complete tribunal application including application form, witness statement, and evidence bundle. Tribunal filing fees (paid directly to the tribunal) range from $30 to $200 depending on the claim amount and state.

Do I need a lawyer for a tribunal?

No. Australian civil and administrative tribunals are designed to be accessible without legal representation. In most tribunals, legal representation is restricted or requires leave.

What can I claim at a tribunal?

Common claims include unpaid rent, bond disputes, faulty goods, consumer rights breaches, unpaid invoices, property damage, and service disputes. Claim limits vary by state and tribunal division.

How to File a VCAT Application in Victoria | Claim Done

How to File a VCAT Application in Victoria

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) handles civil disputes up to $100,000 in its Civil Claims List — the largest small claims jurisdiction of any Australian state. This guide explains exactly how to file a VCAT application.

Get your VCAT application prepared — $197

Before you file — send a letter of demand

VCAT strongly encourages parties to attempt resolution before filing. A formal letter of demand shows you have given the other party a chance to pay or comply. VCAT may ask about this at the hearing — having your letter and a proof of delivery ready strengthens your case significantly.

VCAT Civil Claims List — what it covers

Consumer disputes under the Australian Consumer Law (goods and services)
Breach of contract claims up to $100,000
Unpaid debts and invoices
Building and renovation disputes
Motor vehicle disputes
Residential tenancy disputes (bonds, rent arrears, repairs, unlawful entry)

How to file your VCAT application — step by step

Step 1: Choose the correct list

Civil Claims List handles most consumer and commercial disputes. The Residential Tenancies List handles tenancy matters. Building and Property List handles building defect claims. Confirm the correct list at vcat.vic.gov.au.

Step 2: Gather your evidence

Contract, invoice, or written agreement
All correspondence showing the dispute and your attempts to resolve it
Letter of demand and proof of delivery
Photos, quotes from repairers, receipts, bank statements

Step 3: Complete the application

File online at vcat.vic.gov.au/apply or in person at a VCAT registry. You will need to provide:

Applicant and respondent details
The type of order you are seeking
Amount of the claim
A brief statement of facts and grounds

Step 4: Pay the filing fee

VCAT filing fees range from $67.60 (claims under $500) to $430.20 (claims over $10,000), paid to VCAT at the time of filing. Concession rates apply.

Step 5: Serve the respondent

After filing, VCAT sends a notice of hearing to the respondent. You may also be required to serve your documents — VCAT will advise. Service can be done by post or email.

Step 6: Attend the hearing

Hearings are usually scheduled 4–10 weeks after filing. Bring all original documents, organised by date. VCAT hearings are informal — present your facts calmly and clearly.

Can you have a lawyer at VCAT?

Lawyers can appear at VCAT for any matter with leave (permission) from the Tribunal. In practice, most civil claims below $10,000 are self-represented. For claims above $10,000 against a business, consider whether a lawyer adds value relative to the amount at stake.

After the hearing — enforcing a VCAT order

A VCAT order is a judgment of the Victorian Magistrates Court. If the respondent does not comply, you can enforce it through the Court — including warrant to seize goods, garnishee orders over bank accounts, or registering on the debtor’s credit file.

How Claim Done helps

Claim Done prepares your complete VCAT application bundle — the application form, statement of claim, and supporting document summary. $79 flat fee, done in under 24 hours.