State tenancy tribunals are specifically designed to be accessible to ordinary renters — you do not need a lawyer, the fees are low, and the process is faster than going to court. Here is how to apply in the three largest states, and what to expect when you get there.
Before you apply: mandatory conciliation
In most states, you must attempt to resolve the dispute directly with your landlord before lodging a tribunal application. This is not just best practice — it is usually legally required, and evidence that you tried will strengthen your case.
In VIC, most disputes must now go through RDRV (Residential Disputes Resolution Victoria) before they can be heard by VCAT. In QLD, RTA conciliation is mandatory before QCAT. In NSW, NCAT expects that you have made a good-faith attempt to resolve the matter first, though formal pre-mediation is not always required.
Document your attempts: keep copies of all emails, texts, or letters you sent to the landlord or agent, and note any response (or lack of one).
NSW: applying to NCAT
NCAT (NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal) handles most residential tenancy disputes in New South Wales.
How to apply:
1. Go to ncat.nsw.gov.au and select 'Apply online'
2. Select the 'Consumer and Commercial Division'
3. Choose the relevant application type: Residential Tenancy, Bond Claim, or other
4. Complete the online form with your details, the respondent's details, and a description of your claim
5. Pay the filing fee ($55 for tenants claiming up to $10,000; some concession and waiver options exist)
6. Receive a hearing date (typically 2–4 weeks)
What to bring to the hearing:
- All written communications with your landlord or agent
- Photos (ingoing and outgoing condition report documentation)
- Your lease agreement
- Any receipts for costs you are seeking to recover
- A clear written summary of your position and what you are asking the tribunal to order
VIC: RDRV first, then VCAT
From June 2025, most tenancy disputes in Victoria must go through RDRV before applying to VCAT. RDRV is free and handles: bond disputes, compensation claims, rental minimum standard complaints, and urgent repair orders.
How to apply to RDRV:
If RDRV conciliation fails:
If the matter is not resolved at RDRV, you receive a certificate that allows you to proceed to VCAT. Apply through vcat.vic.gov.au. The process is similar to NCAT, with hearing fees ranging from $70–$100.
- Go to consumeraffairs.vic.gov.au/housing-and-accommodation/renters/rdrv
- Select 'Lodge a dispute request'
- Complete the online form — you will need your rental provider's (landlord's) details and a summary of the dispute
- RDRV will contact the rental provider to arrange a conciliation session (typically within 2 weeks)
- Conciliation is conducted by phone or video — a trained conciliator facilitates discussion between both parties
QLD: RTA conciliation then QCAT
In Queensland, the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) provides free conciliation services that are mandatory before most QCAT applications.
How to request RTA conciliation:
Applying to QCAT:
QCAT hearings are informal — members will hear from both sides, ask questions, and make a binding decision.
- Call the RTA on 1300 366 311 or lodge online at rta.qld.gov.au
- Complete the conciliation request form explaining your dispute
- Both parties participate in a facilitated phone or video session
- If resolved, the outcome is recorded in a conciliation agreement. If not, you can proceed to QCAT.
- Go to qcat.qld.gov.au
- Select the Minor Civil Dispute — Residential Tenancy application type
- Pay the filing fee ($97 for disputes up to $25,000; concession rates available)
- Hearing is typically within 3–6 weeks
Evidence that wins at tribunal
Across all states, the strength of your evidence determines the outcome. The most persuasive evidence is:
Organise your evidence before the hearing. Prepare a brief written summary of your claim, the dates of key events, and exactly what you are asking the tribunal to order. Keep it factual and concise.
- Written communication trail: Emails and messages showing your attempts to resolve the issue
- Dated photographs: Timestamped photos from move-in and move-out for bond disputes; photos showing the repair issue for repair claims
- The condition report: Both ingoing and outgoing where applicable
- Receipts and invoices: For any costs you are claiming to recover
- The lease agreement: Especially relevant clauses