The Human Element In State Administrative Tribunals

The Australian court system is often difficult to navigate, with a variety of different jurisdictions ranging from courts in each state and territory. Those who are unfamiliar with the court system struggle to identify what court and/or jurisdiction they should pursue their matter in, which is contingent on the type of dispute and any monetary amount attached to the claim.

To alleviate and provide relief to the traditional courts, which consists of courts such as the Magistrates and District Court, the state administrative tribunals offer an alternative resource that is often more cost-effective.

Administrative tribunals have the authority to make administrative decisions, where they deal with conventional legal disputes. most states have tribunals similar in nature, which assist the traditional courts in sharing the load of considering and reviewing disputes.

Our team understands and simplifies the court process for our clients who effectively determine the appropriate jurisdiction to commence proceedings in:

  • Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)
  • New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)
  • Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT)
  • State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) Western Australia
  • Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NTCAT)
  • South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT)
  • ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT)
  • Tasmania Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TCAT)

These tribunals are independent and easily accessible with the ability to resolve disputes on a range of matters. The purpose of a tribunal is to provide a quick and inexpensive avenue to resolve a dispute between parties and come to a decision.​

Salerno Law’s lawyers regularly assist those who have or wish to initiate proceedings in such tribunals. Generally, those who pursue disputes in the administrative tribunals are self-represented, meaning the individual conducts the matter without legal representation. In addition, tribunals are a no-cost jurisdiction so you are not liable for your opponent’s costs and so this avenue is wholly more cost-efficient.​

Nevertheless, these tribunals are often legally complex and mirror traditional court systems. Self-represented litigants are expected to carry out complicated legal arguments which require extensive knowledge of the law. In certain cases, if parties fail to engage lawyers, it may often lead to the unrepresented party incurring significantly increased costs.

Constructive, Efficient, and Effective Dealings with Administrative Tribunals

Salerno Law has vast experience in the administrative and appeals tribunals with a recent significant case regarding contracts disputes arising due to COVID-19. Our team can assist in all aspects of these proceedings, from initiating your claim to negotiating an outcome through alternative dispute resolution.

We Have Professionals In Every Field

Our work within state administrative tribunals includes the following areas:

  • debt recovery
  • lease disputes
  • adult administration and guardianship
  • administrative decisions
  • anti-discrimination
  • building disputes
  • children and young people
  • consumer disputes
  • minor civil disputes
  • occupational regulation
  • residential tenancy disputes
  • retail shop leases
  • tree disputes
  • boundaries and fencing
  • motor vehicle disputes

If you have a dispute and are uncertain as to where to commence proceedings, be in touch and we can provide tailored advice to your situation and determine the most appropriate, cost-effective solution.

Book Your Consultation

If your case can be settled without going to court, this is usually best for everyone. To find out if alternative dispute resolution is appropriate for you case, book a consultation with a professional at Salerno Law. Call us on +61 7 5575 8011 to get in touch with our QLD office or +61 8 9169 2206 to reach our WA office.