News

Easy English Guide for Energy and Water hardship assistance

19 March 2024

ACAT has released an Easy English guide [PDF 2,068KB] for Energy and Water clients who experience hardship. This guide includes some information about what happens if you need help from ACAT if your electricity or gas has been cut off or you cannot pay your energy bills. Find more about energy and water cases at ACAT here.

Updated reserved decision protocol

28 February 2024

ACAT recently updated our Reserved Decision Protocol. This gives information about how to enquire about a decision that has been reserved after 3 months has passed.

Find out more about enquiries about reserved decisions.

New guide for planning reviews

16 February 2024

ACAT has released a guide to ACAT review of planning decisions [DOC 111KB].

The guide gives you specific information about what to expect when a planning and development decision is being reviewed by ACAT. It includes information about:

  • the timetable for the review
  • the directions hearing
  • preliminary conferences and mediations
  • communicating and lodging documents with the tribunal
  • final hearings
  • assistance to participate in the review.

Find out more about reviews of ACT Government decisions.

New Authority to Act for an Individual Form

13 February 2024

ACAT has started using a new authority to act for an individual form [DOC 364KB] or [PDF 708KB] in all ACAT applications. The new form is simpler and shorter than the general power of attorney form. The form is different, but the roles and duties of a representative are the same.

You will need to fill in an authority to act for an individual form [DOC 364KB] or [PDF 708KB] to authorise a person (who is not a lawyer) to represent you.

Find out more about representing an individual.

ACAT's Summer holiday period shutdown

6 December 2023

The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) will close at 12:30pm on Friday, 22 December 2023 and re-open at 9:00am on Tuesday, 2 January 2023 (the shutdown period).

Find out more about ACAT's operations for the summer holiday period 2023-2024 here(pdf).

Civil Process Trial implemented permanently

13 October 2023

ACAT has recently reviewed its pathway and procedures to resolve Civil Disputes at the tribunal.

A decision has now been made to implement the new process permanently.

For more information about the new process, please see Civil Disputes and Practice Note 3 of 2023 – New Civil Dispute Process Trial.

Civil process trial extended to 23 October 2023

27 July 2023

The Civil Process Trial has been extended to 23 October 2023.

For more information about the trial and how it might affect your proceedings, please see Civil Process Trial and Practice Note 2 of 2023.

New fees start on 1 July 2023

30 June 2023

ACAT has new fees that start on 1 July 2023.

See the Court Procedures (Fees) Determination 2023, or our summary of fees [PDF 897KB].

Find out more about ACAT fees.

Passing of ACAT President, Graeme Neate AM

23 June 2023

The ACAT President Graeme Neate AM passed away on 17 June 2023. He had served as the ACAT President since January 2017. He will be greatly missed.

The Attorney-General of the ACT, Shane Rattenbury, has issued a statement about the passing of the ACAT President.

Reappointment of Sessional ACAT Members

13 June 2023

ACAT is pleased to announce that ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury MLA has advised the ACAT President that Dr Kate Lubbe and Dr Peter Norrie have been re-appointed as sessional Senior Members of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT). They have been re-appointed for a period of 5 years, from 13 June 2023 to 12 June 2028.

Supported decision making

1 June  2023

ACAT has information available about supported decision making in guardianship and management of property cases.

Find out more here.

Changes to the Health Practitioner National Law

31 May 2023

Changes to the national law which regulates registered health professionals (e.g., doctors, nurses, dentists) took effect on 15 May 2023. The scheme applies in the ACT and includes the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). AHPRA works with fifteen national boards (such as the medical board and the nurses board).

Some of the changes affect ACAT matters, especially in occupational discipline cases. For example:

  • ACAT will now be able to impose restrictions on a practitioner’s provision of health services, rather than an outright prohibition;
  • A national board will be able to take disciplinary action against practitioners who continue to practice or use a protected title after their registration has lapsed; and
  • A national board may withdraw the registration of a practitioner without coming to ACAT if it reasonably believes the practitioner’s registration was improperly obtained because of false or misleading information.

AHPRA will also now be able to issue a public statement about an individual who is under investigation where there is a serious and imminent risk to public safety.

Civil process trial - starting on 10 May 2023

3 May 2023

ACAT is reviewing its pathway and procedures to resolve Civil Disputes at the tribunal.

As part of its review, ACAT is conducting a three month Civil Process Trial between 10 May 2023 and 9 August 2023.

For more information about the trial and how it might affect your proceedings, please see Civil Process Trial and Practice Note 1 of 2023 - Civil Process Trial.

Rent Relief Fund

19 April 2023

Low-income households struggling to pay rent in the ACT’s private rental sector can now apply for financial assistance through the ACT Government’s Rent Relief Fund. If the applicant is approved by Care Financial Counselling, they can receive a one-off grant for up to four weeks rent capped at $2,500. The grant is paid directly to the lessor, or to the grantor for occupants. More information is available here: https://www.justice.act.gov.au/renting-and-occupancy-laws/rent-relief-fund

Changes to tenancy laws, including ending "no cause" evictions and introducing minimum housing standards

29 March 2023

From 1 April 2023 the ACT tenancy laws change. The changes include:

  • Ending ‘no cause’ evictions from residential tenancies and introducing new grounds for ending tenancy agreements
  • Introducing a minimum standard for ceiling insulation in rental properties
  • Preventing lessors or agents from encouraging “rent bidding” (offering to pay more than the advertised price)

A tenant or lessor can apply to the ACAT for orders about a rental property dispute.

For more information see the Justice and Community Safety Directorate's (JACs) website for: Reforms to Tenancy laws in 2023

Incorrect interest rate calculations

23 March 2023

Since 1 January 2023, the rate of interest contained in ACAT’s interest rate calculator (available in civil disputes) has been incorrect. We are currently remedying the issue.

If you have an ACAT order that includes an amount of interest that was calculated to cover some or all of this period of time, please email ACATCivil@act.gov.au to get it corrected.

Survey – ACAT Rules Review

20 March 2023

ACAT is reviewing its ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Procedures Rules 2020 (‘ACAT Rules’) and wants to hear what you think.

The ACAT Rules is made under the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008 (‘ACAT Act') and guides the ACAT’s practices and procedures to ensure applications are resolved in a way that is simple, quick, inexpensive and informal as is consistent with achieving justice.

This review is an opportunity to propose changes to the ACAT Rules to streamline pathways through the tribunal, and prepare the ACAT for its digital future.

As users of ACAT, we want to know what you think about the ACAT Rules. Have your say by responding to this survey below. Your feedback may inform the ACAT’s consideration of potential amendments to the ACAT Rules.

If you have any questions, or wish to provide written feedback, please email ACATProjectTeam@act.gov.au.

The survey will be open from Monday 20 March 2023 to Friday 31 March 2023. Complete the survey via this link: Complete survey now.

New video - Do you need assistance at ACAT?

9 January 2023

ACAT has released a new video called Do you need assistance whilst attending ACAT?

This video provides information about the kinds of assistance that ACAT can provide to support a person, including a vulnerable person or a person with specific needs, when they attend ACAT.

The video provides contact details for the Courts and Tribunal Assistance Officers, who you can contact before you come to ACAT to discuss the assistance you may need and what arrangements ACAT can make to respond to your needs.

Examples of the assistance ACAT can provide includes:

  • providing a tour of ACAT
  • testing our technological aids work for you
  • providing large print copies
  • arranging an Auslan or language interpreter
  • arranging for your assistance animal to attend or for a therapy dog to visit
  • arranging alternative security screening measures
  • arranging reasonable adjustments in ACAT conference or hearing rooms
  • linking you with specialised support services

You can view this video, and other videos on our ACAT videos page.

There is a range of other information available to assist tribunal users to prepare for hearing, including:

Energy and water hardship - New online form

23 December 2022

ACAT has a new online energy and water hardship assistance form.

We developed this online form to make it easier for people to apply to ACAT when they are having difficulties paying their utility bill or they have had their electricity or gas disconnected.

Find out more about energy and water cases at ACAT.

Appointment of Sessional ACAT Members

22 December 2022

ACAT is pleased to announce that ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury MLA has advised the ACAT President that 26 members have been appointed or re-appointed as sessional Senior Members or sessional Ordinary Members of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT):

The following 12 candidates have been appointed as new sessional Senior Members for a five-year term, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2028:

  • Richard Arthur
  • Bruce Collins KC
  • Hon Lea Drake
  • Jennifer Francis
  • Douglas Hassall
  • Lincoln Hawkins
  • John Kalokerinos
  • Annabelle Pegrum
  • Stamatia Stamatellis
  • Daniel Stewart
  • George Tomlins PSM
  • Andrew Wilson

The following eight candidates have been appointed as new sessional Ordinary Members for a five-year term, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2028:

  • Clare Carnell
  • Leanne Close
  • Paul Coleman
  • Felicity Eylward
  • Mark Hanna
  • Susan Helyar
  • Emma Morrison
  • Catherine Sansum

The following three current sessional Senior Members have been reappointed:

  • Robin Creyke AO for a term of three years, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2026
  • Bryan Meagher SC for a term of two years, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2025
  • Peter Sutherland for a term of two years, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2025.

The following three current sessional Ordinary Members have been reappointed

  • Dianne Lucas AM for a term of five years, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2028
  • Eileen Newmarch for a term of two years, from 1 February 2023 to 31 January 2025
  • Elizabeth Trickett for a term of five years, from 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2027.

Annual Review for 2021-2022

5 December 2022

Each year, ACAT publishes a review of its activities, achievements and challenges. Our 2022-22 annual review is now available and gives detailed information about our case workload and outcomes.

To download a copy of our 2021-22 annual review, go to annual reviews.

Appointment of ACAT Presidential Members

1 December 2022

ACAT is pleased to let you know that Attorney-General Rattenbury has advised the ACAT President that:

  • following a recruitment process, the Executive has appointed Ms Mary‐Therese Daniel and Mr Geoffrey McCarthy as full‐time Presidential Members of the ACAT for terms of seven years commencing on 1 January 2023 and ending on 31 December 2029
  • the Executive has appointed Emeritus Professor Peta Spender and Mr Robert Orr PSM KC as Temporary Presidential Members of ACAT on a sessional basis, each for a term of one year. Mr Orr’s appointment will run from 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023, and Emeritus Professor Spender’s will run from 3 February 2023 to 2 February 2024.

ACAT's summer holiday period shutdown

30 November 2022

The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) will close at 1:00pm on Friday, 23 December 2022 and re-open at 9:00am on Tuesday, 3 January 2023 (the shutdown period).

Find out more about ACAT's operations for the summer holiday period 2022-2023 here.

Staff shortages

28 November 2022

ACAT is currently being impacted by staff shortages, which may cause a delay in responding to your enquiry or answering your call. If your enquiry is not urgent, please consider contacting us on another day.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

Residential Tenancy stakeholder forum

11 October 2022

On 25 October 2022, ACAT will be conducting a forum for those stakeholders who are involved in, or have an interest in, ACAT’s work under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.

ACAT will be providing guided tours of our new premises from 4:15pm, with the forum to commence promptly at 5:00pm.

The forum will cover ACAT’s processes for applications under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, how to participate virtually in proceedings, and information about ACT Rental Bonds procedures.  We will also include a question and answer session, starting with questions submitted in advance and then (if time permits) taking questions from the floor.

Attendees can register through Eventbrite here.

National day of mourning Queen Elizabeth II

13 September 2022

All cases listed on Thursday, 22 September 2022 will be vacated and rescheduled to another date.

If your case is impacted by the national day of mourning, ACAT will contact you about a rescheduled listing date.

Expressions of interest to become an ACAT Member

16 August 2022

Do you want to be an ACAT Member? Expressions of interest are being sought for:

  • Sessional Senior and Ordinary Members
  • Full time Presidential Members

Expressions of interest close on Friday, 2 September 2022.

Find out more here:

New location for ACAT

15 August 2022

ACAT has moved to Allara House, 15 Constitution Avenue, Canberra City ACT.

Find out more about attending ACAT.

COVID-19 update

15 August 2022

Today the ACAT President revoked the order made under section 50 of the Court Procedures Act 2004 [PDF 30KB].

Find out more about changes at ACAT due to COVID-19.

New fees start on 1 July 2022

1 July 2022

ACAT has new fees that start on 1 July 2022.

See the Court Procedures (Fees) Determination 2022 (No.2), or our summary of fees [PDF 278KB].

Find out more about ACAT fees.

New practice note

23 June 2022

Today ACAT published Practice Note 3 of 2022 - Applications made to ACAT by a utility [PDF 65KB].

This practice note replaces Practice Note 4 of 2020. It sets out the obligation of utilities to provide notice to consumers in certain circumstances before making some types of applications to ACAT, including before a utility seeks the recovery of a customer debt.

Find out more about ACAT's energy and water jurisdiction.

New video - What to do before a hearing

12 May 2022

ACAT has released a new video about What to do before a hearing.

This video aims to help parties to prepare for a final hearing, and it outlines 3 main steps:

  • Collecting your information and documents (evidence)
  • Presenting your materials
  • Preparing what you will say at the hearing

There is a range of other information to assist tribunal users to prepare for hearing, including:

Easy English Guide

9 May 2022

Today, ACAT released our first Easy English Guide [PDF 3,455]. It is for people who may need a guardian or manager appointed.

The Easy English Guide has information about:

  • making decisions
  • what a guardian or manager is
  • what a guardian or manager does
  • how ACAT decides if someone needs a guardian or manager
  • who can be a guardian or manager
  • what kinds of decisions a guardian or manager might make
  • how long someone will need a guardian or manager
  • how to get help to attend ACAT and take part in a hearing.

Find out more about guardianship and management of property cases at ACAT. You can also watch our videos about:

New practice notes

28 April 2022

Today ACAT released two new practice notes:

ACAT also has a new form - request to take part remotely or in person [DOC 57KB].

Find out more about:

New reviewable decisions - secure local jobs

1 March 2022

The Government Procurement Amendment Act 2022 starts today, 1 March 2022. The Amendment Act introduces additional ACT Government reviewable decisions for code certified entities and complainants, in relation to compliance with secure local job certificates. The amendments mean that ACAT will have the power to review these decisions made by the Registrar of Secure Local Jobs.

COVID-19 update

28 February 2022

Today the ACAT President made an Order that sets out:

  • who can attend ACAT's premises
  • requirement to wear a mask
  • who must leave ACAT premises.

Find out more about Changes at ACAT due to COVID-19.

Changes to occupancy laws – education provider occupancy agreements  

15 February 2022

From 30 January 2022 occupancy agreements with education providers come within the operation of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (the Act). This includes most university student accommodation.

The Act sets out mandatory occupancy principles and other requirements for education provider occupancy agreements.

A grantor or occupant can apply to the ACAT for orders about an occupancy dispute. However if a university dispute resolution procedure is available ACAT cannot make orders unless the parties have been unable to resolve the dispute under that procedure within a reasonable time.

If you are an occupant you can make a complaint about an occupancy dispute to the ACT Human Rights Commission (HRC) at any time.

See the Justice and Community Safety Directorate's (JACs) website for Changes to Occupancy Law: Education provider occupancy agreements.

COVID-19 update

13 February 2022

Today the ACAT President made an Order that sets out:

  • who can attend ACAT's premises
  • requirement to wear a mask
  • who must leave ACAT premises.

Find out more about Changes at ACAT due to COVID-19.

ACAT Client Satisfaction Survey 2021 - closing soon

20 December 2021

The ACAT Client Satisfaction Survey 2021 is open to receive feedback on ACAT services until 25 December 2021.

The survey takes up to 10 minutes to complete.

Your feedback will assist us to better target and improve our services.

New subpoena form

20 December 2021

ACAT has a new subpoena form [PDF 886KB]. The form has been streamlined, simplified and updated.

Find out more about subpoenas.

New video - subpoenas

1 December 2021

We have released a new video about how to ask ACAT for a subpoena.

The video is part of a series of videos in development to give information to ACAT users.

Find out more about subpoenas.

COVID-19 update

18 November 2021

Today the Temporary ACAT President made an Order that sets out:

  • who can attend ACAT's premises
  • requirement to be screened and check in
  • requirement to wear a mask
  • who must leave ACAT premises.

Find out more about:

Listings for the Christmas and New Year shutdown period

5 November 2021

To find out about listing arrangements at ACAT during the Christmas and New Year shutdown period, click here [ RTF 962KB].

New online forms

29 October 2021

ACAT has two new online forms for use by ACAT users:

ACAT's annual review for 2020-21

27 October 2021

Each year, ACAT publishes a review of its activities, achievements and challenges. Our 2020-21 annual review is now available and gives detailed information about our case workload and outcomes.

To download a copy of our 2020-21 annual review, go to annual reviews.

COVID-19 - Pathway forward as restrictions ease

22 October 2021

See our Pathway Forward [PDF 189KB] to find out the proposed changes to ACAT operations as COVID-19 restrictions ease.

ACAT Client Satisfaction Survey 2021

1 October 2021

The ACAT Client Satisfaction Survey 2021 is currently open to receive feedback on ACAT services. The survey will take up to 10 minutes to complete.

Your feedback will assist us to better target and improve our services.

New application for endorsement form

24 September 2021

As part of our ongoing measures to simplify and streamline the endorsement process, the application for endorsement form [PDF 754KB] has been updated. The new form is shorter and more user-friendly. There is now one form for use by both private lessors, and social, community, crisis, transitional or supported housing organisations.

The new form is available here. Our website content on endorsements has been updated, and includes information about how to fill in the new form and a checklist of what’s needed.

There will be a short transition period where the old form will be accepted but we ask that parties now use the new form.

Video scripts translated into 20 different languages

13 September 2021

ACAT’s video scripts for conferences and hearings have been translated into 20 different languages.

Find out more about ACAT videos.

Guardians and managers - legislation changes

9 September 2021

Amendments to the Guardianship and Management of Property Act 1991 (GMP Act) and the Powers of Attorney Act 2006 (POA Act) start today. The amendments allow ACAT to order a guardian, manager or attorney to pay an amount to a protected person, the principal or their estate to:

  1. Compensate for loss caused by failing to comply with the GMP Act or POA Act; or
  2. Account for any profits accrued as a result of failing to comply with the GMP Act or POA Act.

If the protected person or principal has died, the application must be made within six months after the date of death. If both the protected person or principal and the guardian or manager or attorney have died, the application must be made within six months after the day of the first death. You can apply to ACAT to extend this time.

The Application under the Guardianship and Management of Property Act form [DOC 353KB] or [PDF 391KB] has been updated for these new application types.

Find out more about guardianship and management of property cases at ACAT.

Subscribe to ACAT news

6 September 2021

At ACAT, we regularly update our ACAT news to give information to stakeholders about our operations, publications, procedures and upcoming changes.

You can now subscribe to get ACAT news items emailed to you. If you do this, you will get email alerts when we update our ACAT news. You can nominate to receive all our general news, or limit it to civil disputes, unit titles and/or rental property disputes. You can also ask to be notified when ACAT publishes new decisions on our website.

Find out how to subscribe to ACAT news.

New Residential Tenancy COVID-19 Declaration

1 September 2021

The Residential Tenancies (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Declaration 2021 (No 3) starts tomorrow.

You need to check if the Declaration applies to your rental property dispute.

Find out more about the Declaration here.

Fair trading conciliation agreements

27 August 2021

Amendments to the Fair Trading (Australian Consumer Law) Act 1992 commence on 27 August 2021. This means if you reach a conciliation agreement at Access Canberra to resolve a consumer complaint, you can ask ACAT for orders to give effect to the agreement.

Find out more about fair trading conciliation agreements.

Appointment of Temporary President

23 August 2021

Mary-Therese Daniel has been appointed as Temporary President of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT).

The appointment is from 23 August 2021 until 12 November 2021.

Elizabeth Symons has also been appointed as a Part-time Temporary Presidential Member from 23 August 2021 to 22 February 2022.

Rescheduled civil and residential tenancy conferences and hearings

20 August 2021

ACAT has rescheduled some non-urgent hearings and conferences listed  to take place between Monday 23 August 2021 and Friday 27 August 2021, due to a temporary reduction in staff during the lockdown.

Non-urgent civil disputes, rental property and unit titles hearings and conferences listed to take place between Monday 23 August 2021 and Friday 27 August 2021 will be deferred to a new date. Parties whose matters have been rescheduled will be sent a new notice of listing.

The rental property urgent hearings lists, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, will go ahead by telephone or AVL, as will some other urgent matters.

ACAT will endeavour to contact people whose civil disputes, rental property or unit titles hearings are going ahead next week and parties should check their emails. If in doubt, parties should speak with their legal representative or support organisation, or contact ACAT.

All other matters listed in ACAT next week will proceed by telephone or AVL as scheduled.

Find out more about Changes at ACAT due to COVID-19.

Change of identity details for young people

20 August 2021

If you are under 16 years old, you can ask ACAT for permission to apply to change your identity details at Access Canberra.

You may want to:

Find our more about change of identity details for young people.

We have information you can read, a video you can watch and a graphic about coming to ACAT. Contact us if you need more information.

New approved forms - unit titles and fence disputes

15 August 2021

ACAT has updated the following forms relating to unit titles disputes:

  • Application – Unit Titles (Management) Act 2011
  • Application – Unit Titles Act 2001

In addition, the application form for fence disputes has been updated

The forms have been simplified, streamlined and updated.

Find out more about:

COVID-19 snap lock down

12 August 2021

To find out about the arrangements in place during the snap lock down from 5pm on 12 August 2021 to 5pm on 19 August 2021, see Changes due to COVID-19.

New approved forms - civil and retirement villages disputes

11 August 2021

ACAT has updated the following forms relating to civil disputes:

  • Civil dispute application
  • Response – civil dispute
  • Third party notice – civil disputes
  • Response to third party notice – civil dispute
  • Application for default judgment – civil dispute

In addition, the application form for disputes within a retirement village has been updated, as well as the application for an order to be joined as a party.

The forms have been simplified, streamlined and updated.

Find out more about:

Update - COVID-19 and rental property disputes

1 July 2021

The Residential Tenancies (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Declaration 2021 (No 2) (the Declaration) is in force until 30 September 2021 (unless extended) and sets out the COVID-19 post moratorium transitional response measures.

You need to check if the Declaration applies to your rental property dispute.

Transitional measures

The previous post moratorium transitional measures for tenants and lessors has now ended (expired on 30 June 2021). However, the new Declaration extends the payment order provision for an additional 3 month period.

Under the payment order provision, ACAT is obliged to consider making a payment order as an alternative to a termination and possession order for a tenant who was a member of an impacted household during the moratorium period (22 April 2020 to 22 October 2020).

More information

Find out more about:

New fees start on 1 July 2021

30 June 2021

ACAT has new fees that start on 1 July 2021.

See the Court Procedures (Fees) Determination 2021, or our summary of fees [DOC 53KB].

Find out more about ACAT fees.

Updated form - request about payment of fees

24 June 2021

ACAT has updated our request about payment of fees form.

To access the form or find out more about when it can be used, see fees.

Courts and Other Justice Legislation Amendment Act 2021

15 June 2021

The Courts and Other Justice Legislation Amendment Act 2021 was passed by the Legislative Assembly on 3 June 2021.

The Act included amendments about:

The amendments about fences and to the ACAT Act start on Wednesday 16 June 2021. The amendments to the Guardianship and Management of Property Act and the Powers of Attorney Act commence on 9 September 2021. More information will be provided at that time.

Duty to cooperate

Amendments to the ACAT Act mean that a party, an authorised representative  and any other person participating in the proceedings:

  • Is under a duty to cooperate with ACAT so that proceedings are quick, efficient and informal and
  • Must comply with the ACAT Act and any other direction made.

The Courts and Other Justice Legislation Amendment Act 2021 makes some other technical amendments to the ACAT Act.

Fences

Amendments have been made to the Common Boundaries Act 1981 so that:

  • ACAT can:
    • make an order about a fence notice  which does not meet the requirements of the Common Boundaries Act 1981
    • If the parties agree – waive the need for a fence notice  or the requirement to wait 30 days after sending a fence notice to apply to ACAT
  • When considering whether to make an order about repairing a fence, ACAT can also make an order about where the fence should be.

Due to the amendments, we have changed our fence dispute application form [PDF 343KB]. We have also updated our template notice to discuss fence.

Guardians, managers and attorneys

If a guardian, manager or attorney does not comply with their legislative obligations, the amendments allow ACAT to order them to pay compensation for any loss or account for any profit made as a result of non compliance.

More information

Find out about:

New video - preparing submissions

4 June 2021

We have released a new video about preparing submissions.

The video is part of a series of videos in development to give information to ACAT users.

Find out more about submissions.

New video - preparing a timeline

17 May 2021

We have released a new video about preparing a timeline.

The video is part of a series of videos in development to give information to ACAT users.

Find out more about timelines.

COVID-19 and rental property disputes

29 April 2021

The Residential Tenancies (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Declaration 2021 (the Declaration) is in force until 30 June 2021 (unless extended) and sets out the COVID-19 post moratorium transitional response measures.

You need to check if the Declaration applies to your rental property dispute.

Transitional measures

The declaration has transitional measures that apply to tenants and lessors, including:

  • a tenant who was COVID-impacted during the moratorium period has the transitional period to work towards clearing rental debt (this applies if tenants pay rent as it falls due in the transitional period)
  • a tenant can apply to ACAT to vary or set aside an order about failure to pay rent (in certain circumstances - see the declaration) using the application for interim or other orders form
  • ACAT is obliged to consider making a payment order as an alternative to a termination and possession order for a tenant who was a member of an impacted household during the moratorium period
  • a lessor and tenant can negotiate reduced rent
  • restrictions on tenants being added to tenancy databases
  • a tenant can terminate a fixed term tenancy by giving at least 3 weeks’ notice.
How to show the declaration applies

In any application by a tenant or lessor in which the tenant says the declaration applies, the tenant will need to give to ACAT (and the lessor) evidence that shows that the tenant is a member of a household impacted by COVID-19.

An 'impacted household' includes where a member of the household was eligible for Jobseeker or Jobkeeper, or that as a result of the impact of COVID-19 the gross weekly income of the household is reduced by at least 25%.

So that ACAT can be satisfied that the declaration is relevant, the evidence that a tenant will need to provide should include (if relevant):

  • proof of JobSeeker or JobKeeper payment
  • proof of termination or stand-down such as a statutory declaration, letter or signed statement from the employer/s
  • proof of loss of work such as rosters showing a reduction in hours
  • proof of prior income such as group certificates, pay slips or bank statements
  • any other information that demonstrates that the tenant is a member of an impacted household and that the declaration applies.
More information

The ACT Government has information about the declaration:

Find out more about:

Update on ACAT endorsement applications

19 April 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, processing of applications for endorsement of inconsistent terms was delayed due to staffing constraints at ACAT. This has led to a backlog of endorsement applications which is still being worked through.

ACAT recognises that where a tenant and lessor enter into a tenancy agreement which is different to the prescribed terms, they will need to know as soon as possible which clauses of the agreement will be binding. ACAT has made changes to the endorsement application process, including:

  • Parties are no longer required to provide a ‘proforma for endorsement’ (a draft ACAT order)
  • Generally, applications will be considered by an ACAT member in chambers within a month of lodgment
  • If the ACAT member has questions about the application, it will be listed for a short (15 minute) telephone hearing.

A shorter, simpler endorsement application form is being developed. Parties can continue to use the current application form until the new form is available.

Things that parties (or representatives) can do to assist in an application for endorsement being determined quickly include:

  • Make sure the residential tenancy agreement has every clause numbered and is signed. Only clauses that clearly form part of the signed agreement can be considered for endorsement.
  • Make sure the application for endorsement:
    • shows the name of the lessor and tenant and each party’s contact details;
    • is signed by the lessor (or their representative) and tenant;
    • attaches a copy of the tenancy agreement;
    • specifies (by number) the clauses which are to be endorsed.
  • If the application is made by an agent on behalf of a lessor, ensure a general power of attorney form [DOC 52KB] or [PDF 241KB] or authority to act for a corporation form [PDF 57KB] is lodged with the application for endorsement.

Reforms for occupancies and residential tenancies

2 March 2021

Reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 start on 3 March 2021.

New type of rental bond referral

There are a range of reforms, including a new type of referral to ACAT from ACT Rental Bonds.

If a bond release application is made to ACT Rental Bonds and the names of the tenants in the bond application do not match the names of the tenants on record, ACT Rental Bonds can refer the matter to ACAT. ACAT can decide who is entitled to receive the bond and make an order directing the release of the bond.

Find out more about rental bond and security deposit disputes.

Co-tenants

The reforms introduce a 'co-tenant' as a new class of tenant and there are provisions about:

  • a tenancy dispute will now include a dispute between co-tenants
  • how a co-tenant can leave a co-tenancy (including by ACAT order) and repayment of the bond to the leaving co-tenant
  • becoming a co-tenant under an existing tenancy and when a lessor can refuse consent to a new person becoming a co-tenant.

Find out more about co-tenancies.

Occupancies

There are new provisions about occupancies including:

  • new occupancy principles
  • what should be included in an occupancy agreement
  • requiring security deposits to be lodged with ACT Rental Bonds and disputes to be treated in a similar way to bonds
  • power for the ACAT Registrar to issue a warrant for eviction on application from a grantor
  • an occupant can make an occupancy dispute complaint to the Human Rights Commission and this complaint may be referred to ACAT in certain circumstances.

Find out more about the tenancy and occupancy reforms.

New laws about conversion practices

2 March 2021

The Sexuality and Gender Identity Conversion Practices Act 2020 starts on 4 March 2021. Under this Act, a complaint can be made to the ACT Human Rights Commission (the Commission) by someone who has suffered harm as a result of sexuality and gender identity conversion practices.

The Commission may try to resolve the complaint by conciliation. If not resolved, the person making the complaint may ask the Commission to refer the complaint to ACAT.

Once referred, ACAT can make various types of orders if it is satisfied that the person complained about engaged in a harmful practice.

New energy and water online complaint form

18 December 2020

Do you need to make a complaint about an electricity, gas or water (utility) provider?

ACAT's energy and water complaints jurisdiction now has an online complaint/application form.

Find out more about energy and water complaints.

Incorrect interest rate calculations

9 December 2020

During the period 1 January 2020 to 1 December 2020, the rate of interest in ACAT’s interest rate calculator was incorrect. The issue was remedied on 1 December 2020.

If you have an ACAT order that includes an amount of interest that was calculated to cover some or all of this period of time, please email ACATCivil@act.gov.au to get it corrected.

For more information about civil disputes, or to access the interest calculator see civil disputes.

Updated unit titles forms

8 December 2020

We have updated our unit titles application forms.

The application forms for a unit title dispute are:

Find out more about unit titles disputes.

ACAT's operations for the summer holiday period 2020 - 2021

ACAT will close at 12:00 noon on Thursday, 24 December 2020 and re-open at 9:00am on Monday, 4 January 2021.

Find out more about our listing arrangements for the Christmas/New Year holiday period.

ACAT's annual review for 2019-2020

26 November 2020

Each year, ACAT publishes a review of its activities, achievements and challenges. Our 2019-2020 annual review is now available and gives detailed information about our case workload and outcomes.

To download a copy of our 2019-2020 annual review, go to annual reviews.

Unit Titles - changes to legislation

2 November 2020

The Unit Titles Legislation Amendment Act 2020 commences on 1 November 2020. The Act amends legislation associated with the units plans.

Some key changes for ACAT are:

  • There are new reviewable decisions in the Community Title Act 1923 and the Land Titles Act 1925.
  • There are new basis on which orders corporations may apply to ACAT for authority to enter into contracts and change rules during the developer period, how general and sinking fund contributions can be amended, and unit owners can apply for a declaration that an alternative rule is invalid
  • An owners corporation can apply for an order about a grantee, and a grantee may apply to ACAT for an order about an owners corporation.
  • There are some new kinds of orders that ACAT can make.
  • A developer can apply to ACAT for a declaration that they can vote on a motion about defective building work, in certain circumstances.

Find out more about:

Removal of fair work cases to the ACT Magistrates Court

9 October 2020

The Courts (Fair Work and Work Safety) Legislation Amendment Act 2019 starts on 10 October 2020. It amends the ACAT Act and provides:

  • that a civil dispute application at ACAT does not include a fair work claim, as ACAT is not an eligible Court with jurisdiction to hear fair work matters under the Fair Work Act 2009.
  • for the removal of combined fair work matters from ACAT to the ACT Magistrates Court.

ACAT can make orders removing a combined fair work matter to the ACT Magistrates Court on its own initiative or an application of a party.

Parties seeking removal should complete and lodge an application for interim or other orders form [PDF 56KB].

New video - preparing a witness statement

2 October 2020

We have released a new video about preparing a witness statement.

The video is part of a series of videos in development that contribute to our values of making the ACAT accessible to the community.

Find out more about witness statements.

New video - lodging and serving documents

28 September 2020

We have released a new video about lodging and serving documents.

The video is part of a series of videos in development that contribute to our values of making the ACAT accessible to the community.

Find out more about lodging and serving documents.

The ACT Human Rights Commission can refer discrimination cases to ACAT on its own initiative

9 September 2020

On 28 August 2020 changes to the Human Rights Commission Act 2005 started. They allow a Commission-initiated discrimination matter or complaint to be referred to ACAT (by the Commission) when it involves an unlawful act under the Discrimination Act 1991.

If the Commission prepares a report in relation to a Commission-initiated discrimination matter, they can refer the matter to ACAT within 60 days after the report has been prepared.

On referral to ACAT, the Commission must give written notice of the the referral to the person complained about. The Commission is the complainant for these referrals.

Find out more about discrimination cases.

Amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 commenced on 25 August 2020

25 August 2020

A summary of the key changes are:

  • Allowing a tenant to terminate a fixed term lease in certain circumstances where the lessor is selling the property
  • New standard clauses in residential tenancy agreements with conditions for access for purchasers and new tenants.
  • Setting requirements for ACAT to be satisfied about before terminating a lease if the tenant has used the premises for an illegal purpose
  • Requiring a lessor to have made more than 2 applications for termination and possession before ACAT can make orders about payment of future rent
  • Allowing ACAT to make orders it considers appropriate in residential tenancy matters including declaratory orders
  • Allowing defects in notices to be corrected if the person receiving the notice would not be in a significantly worse position if the notice or service of the notice was not corrected
  • Enabling ACAT to suspend an order for a new tenancy agreement arising from family violence and protection orders in certain circumstances for up to three weeks
  • Clarifying that a referral from Rental Bonds is an application for the resolution of a dispute
  • Allowing regulations to be made to create minimum standards for rental properties
  • Repairs to cooling is an urgent repair under the standard residential tenancy terms

This is a summary of some of the new laws. To get advice about how the new laws apply to your situation, a list of free legal advice providers is available here.

New approved form

25 August 2020

The approved form Application for Resolution of a Dispute under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 has been amended to allow an applicant to provide information about previous applications made to ACAT for a tenancy.

The new form takes effect on 25 August 2020 and is available here.

Changes to ACAT's procedures for rental bond matters

25 August 2020

From 25 August 2020 there will be some changes to ACAT’s procedure for rental bond matters.

The changes apply to bond disputes referred to ACAT from Rental Bonds where the lessor’s claim:

  1. is for deductions from the bond only; and
  2. does not exceed the bond.

If the dispute is not resolved at the rental bond conference, the lessor may be required to give the tenant and the ACAT a Rental Bond Claim setting out each item they are claiming from the bond and the total amount of the claim. There is no fee for this document.

The tenant can respond using a Rental Bond Response.

Lessors are still required to provide a list of deductions they seek from the bond to ACAT and the tenant at least seven days before the rental bond conference. More information is available here.

Fee increases in 2020 have started

1 August 2020

ACAT's current fees are set out in the Court Procedures (Fees) Determination 2020 (No 2).. The fee increases start on 1 August 2020.

You can also view a  summary of fees [DOC 48KB]. This summary tells you the fees for ACAT's case types.

Find out more about fees.

New asbestos laws

9 July 2020

The Loose-fill Asbestos Legislation Amendment Act 2020 commenced on 1 July 2020.

Under the new laws, a residential tenancy agreement, occupancy agreement, assignment or sub-letting entered into on or after 1 July 2020 for premises affected by loose-fill asbestos (Mr Fluffy) is void. A list of affected premises is publicly available on the affected premises register.

A person can use the application for resolution of a tenancy dispute form [PDF 298KB] or [DOC 240] to apply to ACAT for compensation from the lessor or grantor for any rent or other payment made under a void agreement.

Fee increases in 2020 are starting soon

1 July 2020

ACAT's fees will increase on 1 August 2020.

For more information about the increase in ACAT fees, see the Court Procedures (Fees) Determination 2020 (No 2).

For information about ACAT's current fees, see ACAT fees.

Cancellation and criminal intelligence applications made by the Chief Police Officer

12 June 2020

New laws commenced on 6 June 2020 that allow the Chief Police Officer (CPO) to apply to ACAT to cancel a constructions industry or liquor licence or permit on the basis of criminal activity. When asking for a licence to be cancelled, the CPO can seek to rely on criminal intelligence information.

A person can also apply to ACAT to revoke a cancellation order.

To find out more, see:

Changes at ACAT due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

10 June 2020

Up-to-date information about the changes made at ACAT due to COVID-19 is available here.

Please read this information carefully if you have a case at ACAT.

Online form for civil dispute applications

2 March 2020

From 2 March 2020 an online form is available for civil dispute applications.

The online form can be completed by self-represented litigants.  Applicants can follow the link from the ACAT website to start an application, following the step-by-step instructions to complete the form.  Once completed, the fee payment can be made electronically to complete lodgment of the application.

Find out more about online forms.

Interpreter protocols

20 February 2020

The ACT Supreme Court, Magistrates Court and ACAT have issued interpreter protocols.

Find out more about:

New ACAT rules and practice notes

3 February 2020

The ACT Civil and Administrative Procedures Rules 2020 (the rules) start on 3 February 2020. They replace ACAT's previous rules and procedural directions.

Three practice notes have been made under the new rules:

For more information, see our letter to stakeholders.

New ACAT jurisdiction for motor accident injuries

3 January 2020

The Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 starts on 1 February 2020.

The Act gives new jurisdiction to ACAT to:

  • decide the disbursement of death benefits
  • review decisions by an insurer that are specified in regulations
  • review specified decisions of the MAI Commissioner
  • review significant occupational impact reports
  • determine applications for future treatment payments.

For more information, see our motor accident injuries information.

Australia Post - Bushfire impacts

2 January 2020

Due to ongoing bushfire activity, Australia Post operations have been impacted in a number of locations in ACT, WA, Victoria and NSW.

Note:

  • service of ACAT applications may be delayed and
  • receipt of correspondence relating to an ACAT case may also be delayed.

If you have a current ACAT case, or are going to make an application, please provide ACAT with your email address and an email address for any other parties in the case.

Check the Australia Post website for more information.

Christmas shutdown

3 December 2019

ACAT will close at 3:00pm on Tuesday, 24 December 2019 and re-open at 9:00am on Thursday, 2 January 2020.

For more information, see ACAT shutdown arrangements for 2019-2020 [PDF 513KB].

ACAT's annual review for 2018-2019

15 November 2019

Each year, ACAT publishes a review of its activities, achievements and challenges. Our 2018-2019 annual review is now available and:

  • covers ACAT's 10th full year of operation
  • gives detailed information about our case workload and outcomes.

To download a copy of our 2018-2019 annual review, go to our annual reviews.

Welcome to ACAT video

15 November 2019

ACAT has published our 'Welcome to ACAT' video. It gives information about the types of cases ACAT hears and decides, and what to expect at ACAT.

To watch our 'Welcome to ACAT video', see ACAT videos.

Changes to residential tenancy law

1 November 2019

The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2019 commenced on 1 November 2019. This Act introduces new types of applications made by landlords and tenants at ACAT.

Parties will be able to apply to ACAT about:

  • Rent increases: A lessor may apply for approval to increase the rental rate more than the prescribed amount, i.e. more than the percentage increase of the rent’s component of CPI plus 10%. A tenant may apply for a review of a proposed increase.
  • Modifications: A lessor may apply for approval of their refusal to consent to special modifications. A tenant may ask for an order that the lessor unreasonably refused to consent to their request for a general modification.
  • Pets: Lessors may seek approval to refuse consent to keep an animal, or to impose a condition for keeping a pet. A tenant may ask ACAT to resolve a dispute about whether a condition is reasonable.

Find out more about rental property disputes at ACAT.

Retirement village complaints and conciliation agreements

1 September 2019

Under new laws, a complaint can be made to the ACT Human Rights Commission (the Commission) about a retirement village operator.

The Commission may try to resolve the complaint by conciliation. If the complaint is not resolved and is closed by the Commission, the person making the complaint can ask for the complaint to be referred to ACAT.

ACAT can also make orders that give effect to conciliation agreements made at the Commission.

Find out more about retirement village disputes at ACAT.

Rental property stakeholder forum

21 August 2019

ACAT held a residential tenancy stakeholder forum on Wednesday 21 August 2019.  We discussed the practice and procedure of ACAT.

Legislation, Policy and Projects (from the Justice and Community Safety Directorate) also gave an overview of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2019.

You can download the PowerPoint slides from the forum (go to presentations and speeches).

Give feedback on ACAT's website

12 July 2019

To give feedback on our new website take our survey that has 6 quick questions.

Video about hearings

24 July 2019

ACAT has published a video about final hearings.

Watch our video to find out what to expect at an ACAT hearing.

Increase in ACAT fees

1 July 2019

ACAT fees have increased today by up to 2.5%. Find out more about fees.

There is also a new process to apply for a free audio recording or transcript of a proceeding.

Launch of ACAT's new website

24 June 2019

ACAT launched a new website on 24 June 2019.

The new website shows our commitment to service delivery and access to justice.

At ACAT, we want to keep procedures simple, quick, inexpensive and informal, while also achieving justice.

Our new website:

Contact us for more information.

ACAT celebrates 10 years

2 February 2019

ACAT celebrated its 10 year anniversary in February 2019.

ACAT began operations on 2 February 2009 when  16 jurisdictions and tribunals were consolidated into its structure, forming a ‘super tribunal’ to consider and resolve applications by various parties on a wide range of issues.

Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, is used wherever possible to negotiate agreed settlements between parties to an application.

The tribunal’s objectives require it to be accessible, quick, affordable, professional and fair.

The milestone was celebrated at a reception with the Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay MLA and representatives of the legal community.

Find out more about ACAT.

Glossary and terms

Glossary and terms

ACT Civil and Administrative TribunalA tribunal established under the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008. It may also be referred to as ACAT or Tribunal.

Adjourn (or adjournment)To suspend or postpone a preliminary conference, mediation or hearing and reschedule it for a future date.

Administrative reviewACAT has jurisdiction to review some administrative decisions made by the ACT Government. Find out about Review of ACT Government decisions.

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)Also known as dispute resolution. This is a way of resolving disputes without a formal hearing. It may involve a preliminary conference or mediation. ADR is used to help parties resolve cases by agreement.

AnorMeans ‘and another’. This term is generally used to name parties to proceedings when there is more than one applicant or respondent.

Appeal TribunalA tribunal constituted under section 81 of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal 2008 to review a decision of the tribunal (not all ACAT decisions are appealable at ACAT – you may need to go to the Supreme Court).

AppellantThe individual or company that appeals an ACAT decision.

ApplicantThe individual or company that brings a case to ACAT, usually by making an application.

Authorising lawsA law that says an application (including referrals) may be made to ACAT. An authorising law may also set out the powers ACAT has in a case. Also see ‘jurisdiction’.

Calling a witnessA party or their representative will ‘call a witness’ at an ACAT hearing when they ask a witness to give evidence.

CaseAlso known as a matter, dispute, application or referral. Cases come to ACAT when ACAT has jurisdiction (power) to make a decision.

Cross-examinationThe process of asking a witness questions to test or check the evidence that the witness has given to ACAT.

DecisionWhat the tribunal decides or determines about an issue or a dispute. The tribunal may sometimes explain why in a statement of reasons.

Defined benefitsare the following benefits (see section 33 of the MAI Act):

  1. income replacement benefits;
  2. treatment and care benefits;
  3. quality of life benefits;
  4. death benefits;
  5. funeral benefits.

Deliver a decisionAlso ‘handing down a decision’. This is giving a decision about an ACAT case. It may be done verbally or in writing (or both).

DirectionsInstructions that set out what each party must do (and when), often to prepare a case for hearing.

Directions hearingA short hearing where an ACAT Member or Registrar decides how to manage a case and what needs to be done before a hearing. Find out about directions hearings.

Ex parte orderAn order made by ACAT where one or more parties were not present.

Expert reportA written report from an expert that may be used as evidence.

Expert witnessA person with specialised knowledge based on their training, study or experience. An expert can give evidence at a hearing. Find out more about witness statements.

Final directions hearingSometimes ACAT will hold a final directions hearing prior to the final hearing of an application. The purpose is to make sure the case is ready to go to a hearing and give the parties a chance to ask questions about the hearing process.

GuardianA guardian is a person ACAT appoints to make personal decisions, about health, welfare and where a person lives, for a person who has impaired decision-making ability (the ‘protected person’).

Handed upGiving documents to an ACAT Member or Registrar in a hearing.

In chambersWhen ACAT considers something without holding a hearing.

Joined party (joined/joinder)A party who was not originally a party to the dispute but has later been added to the case.

JurisdictionACAT’s authority (power) to deal with, hear and decide applications (cases).

LeaveIf someone asks for leave, they are usually asking for permission to do something.

List (or listing)A schedule (or list) of cases to be heard at ACAT each day.

Listing noticeA letter or written document from ACAT that sets out when a conference, mediation or hearing is scheduled at ACAT.

ManagerA manager is a person ACAT appoints to make decisions, about property and money, for a person with impaired decision-making ability (the ‘protected person’).

MAI ActMotor Accident Injuries Act 2019 (ACT).

MediationA private meeting where parties discuss ways to resolve their dispute, with the help of an impartial mediator (who is also an ACAT Member or Registrar). It is held under section 35 of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008.

Non-publication and/or non-disclosure orderAlso called a ‘suppression order’. It is an order that requires certain information not to be published or disclosed. It is made under section 39 of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008. Find out about public hearings and confidentiality.

Notice to partiesA letter sent to the parties in a case that sets out the time, date and location for an ACAT conference, mediation or hearing.

Opening statementUsually means a statement made at the beginning of a hearing to outline the key points in the case. Sometimes parties are asked to give an opening statement at a mediation or preliminary conference.

OrderA direction or instruction of the tribunal that a person do a certain thing. The tribunal can make different types of orders depending on the case type and the tribunal’s powers in a case or dispute.

Originating applicationAn application that starts an ACAT case.

Party or partiesAn individual or company directly involved in an ACAT case, for example an applicant or respondent. Find out how to identify and name parties.

Preliminary conferenceA private meeting where parties discuss ways to resolve their dispute with the help of an ACAT Member or Registrar. See section 33 of the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2008. ACAT has different types of preliminary conferences.

Protected personA person who has impaired decision-making ability and about whom an application to ACAT may be made seeking orders under the Guardianship and Management of Property Act 1991 or the Power of Attorney Act 2006.

RegistryThe administrative section of ACAT that accepts documents lodged by parties, handles enquiries and provides support for case management.

Relevant insurerfor a motor accident, means the insurer under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 (see section 34) of the motor vehicle considered to be at fault for the motor accident in the ACT.

RepresentativeA person who represents or advocates for an individual or company at a conference, mediation or hearing at ACAT. For example, a legal practitioner or an attorney appointed under a general power of attorney.

Reserved decisionWhen an ACAT Member or Registrar reserves a decision (at the end of a hearing), this means they will give their decision later, either verbally or in writing (sometimes both).

RespondentThe party (or parties) against whom orders or relief is sought.

Serve/serviceA person who can give evidence at a hearing. Find out about witness statements.

Short service orderAn order that authorises a shorter time for service (than the time otherwise required).

Significant occupational impact (SOI)Significant impact on an injured person’s ability to undertake employment.

Statement of reasonsA document that explains why ACAT made an order in a case. It sets out the law relied on by an ACAT Member or Registrar and explains how the law was applied to the facts of the case. You can request a written statement of reasons within 14 days after an order is made. Find out about statement of reasons.

StayAn order for a particular action (or decision) to be put on hold or suspended for a period of time.

SubmissionA document that sets out your side of a case or dispute and the relevant law. It is presented to ACAT either in writing, verbally or both. Find out about submissions.

SubpoenaRequires a person to appear at ACAT to give evidence or provide documents (or both). Find out about subpoenas.

Substituted service orderAn order that says how a party is to be served with an application or other documents related to the proceedings. In a civil dispute or a rental dispute, an applicant will need to consider asking for a substituted service order if they do not have a physical address for the respondent. Find out about lodging and serving documents.

WitnessA person who can give evidence at a hearing. Find out about witness statements.