When you receive a QCAT application naming you as the respondent, the clock starts immediately. In a minor debt claim, you have 28 days from the date of service to lodge your response (Form 7) with the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal. Miss this deadline and the applicant can ask QCAT for a decision by default, made without hearing from you. In consumer and trader, residential tenancy and dividing fence disputes you are not required to file a response, but you can file a reply or evidence up to 7 days before the hearing.
For the forms, fees and each step, see our guide to making an QCAT application.
What Happens When You’re Served with a QCAT Application
QCAT applications are typically served by registered post, personal service via a process server, or email if you’ve agreed to electronic service.
In a minor debt claim, the 28-day clock starts from the date you were served, not the date the application was lodged. Check the covering letter or the process server’s affidavit for the exact service date.
The application will include:
- The application form the applicant filed (for example, Form 1 for a consumer dispute or Form 3 for a minor debt)
- Statement of facts outlining the applicant’s claim
- Copies of supporting documents and evidence
- A notice explaining your right to respond
The applicant’s statement of facts sets out their version of events. Your response is your opportunity to dispute it.
The 28-Day Deadline: Why It Matters
In a minor debt claim, if you fail to lodge your response within 28 days, the applicant can lodge a request for a decision by default, and that decision is enforceable against you in the courts. If a decision by default is made, you can apply to have it set aside: you need to explain why a response was not filed in time and include your response to the original application.
You can apply for an extension, but QCAT will only grant one if you have a valid reason and the delay does not cause substantial prejudice to the applicant. Do not rely on getting an extension — lodge on time.
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Step 1: Complete Your Response (Form 7 in a Minor Debt Claim)
In a minor debt claim, the response is Form 7 – Response to minor civil dispute – minor debt. In other minor civil disputes, you can file a reply and evidence instead. The forms are listed on QCAT’s forms page, or you can request a copy from the registry.
What to Include in Your Response
Your details Full legal name, address for service, contact phone and email. If you’re a company, include ACN and registered office address.
The application you’re responding to QCAT file number (shown on the application you received), applicant’s name, date of application.
Whether you oppose the application Say whether you dispute any part of the claim, or admit it entirely.
Grounds of opposition Set out clearly and concisely:
- Which facts in the applicant’s statement you dispute
- Your version of what happened
- Any legal grounds for opposing the claim (e.g., the contract was not breached, the goods were fit for purpose, the debt has been paid)
Be specific. Do not just write “I dispute the claim.” Explain why the claim fails.
What orders you seek If you want QCAT to dismiss the application, say so. If you want different orders (e.g., a reduced payment amount, an extension of time), specify them here.
Documents you rely on List every document you will use to support your defence:
- Contracts, invoices, receipts
- Emails, text messages, letters
- Photos, inspection reports, expert reports
- Bank statements, payment records
Attach copies of these documents when you lodge your response.
Step 2: Prepare Your Supporting Evidence
QCAT decisions are made on the evidence before the tribunal. If you do not attach evidence to your response, you may not be allowed to introduce it later.
What Evidence to Gather
For debt disputes: Proof of payment (bank statements, receipts), payment plans, correspondence acknowledging the debt was settled.
For defective goods or services: Photos of the defect, independent inspection reports, quotes for rectification, correspondence with the supplier.
For contract disputes: The signed contract, any amendments or variations, correspondence showing both parties’ intentions, evidence of performance or breach.
For tenancy disputes: Entry condition reports, exit condition reports, photos, repair invoices, bond lodgement records.
Organise your evidence chronologically. Number each document and refer to it by number in your response.
Step 3: Lodge Your Response with QCAT
In a minor debt claim, you must lodge your completed Form 7 and supporting documents with the QCAT registry within 28 days of service. In other minor civil disputes, file your reply and evidence at least 7 days before the hearing.
How to Lodge
Online via QCAT Online Create an account at qcat.qld.gov.au, upload your response and attachments as PDFs. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your file number.
In person Brisbane registry: Level 9, 259 Queen Street, Brisbane. Bring two copies — one for the registry, one stamped for your records.
By post QCAT Registry, GPO Box 1639, Brisbane QLD 4001. Send by registered post and keep proof of postage. Allow extra time for postal delays.
By email registry@qcat.qld.gov.au — only if the file size is under 10MB. Larger files must be lodged online or in person.
Serve a Copy on the Applicant
QCAT does not serve your response for you. You must send a copy to the applicant (or their lawyer) by email, registered post, or personal service via a process server.
Keep proof of service. You may need to file an affidavit of service later.
Step 4: Prepare for the Hearing
Once your response is lodged, QCAT will schedule a directions hearing or a substantive hearing. You’ll receive a notice with the date, time, and location.
What Happens at a Directions Hearing
The tribunal member will confirm the issues in dispute, set a timetable for filing further evidence or witness statements, and decide whether the matter should proceed to a full hearing or be resolved by mediation.
Come prepared to explain your defence briefly. Bring copies of your response and supporting documents.
What Happens at a Substantive Hearing
This is the full hearing where both parties present their case. You will give evidence under oath or affirmation, present your supporting documents, cross-examine the applicant or their witnesses, and make submissions on why the tribunal should find in your favour.
QCAT hearings are less formal than court, but you must still follow tribunal procedure. Arrive early, dress appropriately, and address the tribunal member as “Member” or “Sir/Madam.”
Common Mistakes When Responding to QCAT Applications
Missing the 28-day deadline in a minor debt claim Set a calendar reminder for day 21 so you have a buffer.
Failing to attach evidence If you say “I have proof of payment” but do not attach the bank statement, the tribunal cannot consider it.
Admitting facts you should dispute Do not concede anything in your response unless you genuinely agree with it. Once admitted, it’s difficult to retract.
Ignoring the applicant’s evidence If the applicant has attached invoices, emails, or photos, you must respond to them. Silence looks like acceptance.
Writing a narrative instead of addressing the claim Your response should directly answer the applicant’s allegations, not tell your life story. Be clear, factual, and relevant.
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Final Checklist: Responding to a QCAT Application
Before you lodge your response, confirm:
- [ ] Response (Form 7 in a minor debt claim) completed in full with no blank sections
- [ ] All disputed facts clearly identified and explained
- [ ] Supporting documents attached and numbered
- [ ] Response lodged on time (within 28 days of service in a minor debt claim)
- [ ] Copy served on the applicant with proof of service kept
- [ ] Calendar reminder set for directions hearing or substantive hearing date
QCAT moves quickly once a response is filed. Stay organised, meet every deadline, and present your evidence clearly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I miss the 28-day deadline to respond to a QCAT application?
In a minor debt claim, the applicant can lodge a request for a decision by default, and that decision is enforceable against you in the courts. If a decision by default is made, you can apply to have it set aside: you need to explain why a response was not filed in time and include your response to the original application. It’s far easier to lodge on time.
Can I get an extension to lodge my QCAT response?
Yes, but only if you apply before the 28-day deadline expires and show a valid reason (e.g., serious illness, unavoidable absence). QCAT will only grant an extension if it does not cause substantial prejudice to the applicant. Do not assume you’ll get an extension — lodge on time wherever possible.
Do I need a lawyer to respond to a QCAT application?
No. QCAT is designed for self-representation and most respondents do not use lawyers. For straightforward disputes under $25,000, you can prepare and lodge your own response using the form on QCAT’s website (Form 7 in a minor debt claim) and supporting evidence.
What evidence should I attach to my QCAT response?
Attach copies of every document you will rely on to defend the claim: contracts, invoices, receipts, emails, photos, inspection reports, bank statements, or expert reports. Organise them chronologically, number each document, and refer to them by number in your response. If you don’t attach evidence now, you may not be allowed to introduce it later.
Can I settle the dispute after lodging my QCAT response?
Yes. Many QCAT matters settle before the hearing through negotiation or mediation. If you reach an agreement with the applicant, you can ask QCAT to make consent orders reflecting the settlement, or the applicant can withdraw the application. Settling avoids the time and cost of a full hearing.
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