Taking it to NCAT

How it works

1. 1

   Apply online at ncat.nsw.gov.au

   Tenancy cases go to NCAT's Consumer and Commercial Division. There is an application fee (it was $62, or $16 with a concession card, as at 1 July 2025 — check NCAT's website for today's fee). You can ask for a fee waiver if you can't afford it.

2. 2

   Name the other party exactly

   Use the landlord or agency's full legal name and the address for service. If you're not sure of the legal name, search ASIC's registers or ask — getting this wrong can delay your case (NCAT's website).

3. 3

   State the orders you want

   Your application must say exactly what you're asking NCAT to order — repairs completed by a date, your bond paid back, compensation — and why. You can ask for more than one order.

4. 4

   Attach your evidence

   Your lease, condition report, dated photos, receipts, texts and emails. NCAT decides on the documents in front of it, so the application is where your evidence starts.

5. 5

   Lodge within time

   Some applications have their own time limit; if none is set, they generally must be lodged within 28 days of the dispute arising (NCAT's website). When in doubt, lodge early.

6. 6

   The hearing itself

   Hearings are informal but formal in outcome: you speak to a Tribunal Member, both sides get to respond, and a decision usually follows the same day. Bring two copies of everything.

Process details come from NCAT's own website (ncat.nsw.gov.au) and were current when last checked. Legal rules below are cited to the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 (NSW).

The rules behind your case

1. NCAT can order repairs, money, and terminations

   s 44

   The Tribunal can make orders for repair work to be done, payment of money (including bond), compensation, and termination of the agreement. You apply for the specific orders you want, and you can ask for more than one.

   Next step: Write down exactly what you want NCAT to order — e.g. repairs within 14 days, or your bond back in full — before you apply.

2. NCAT is the place tenancy disputes are decided

   s 44

   The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal hears residential tenancy disputes — bonds, repairs, rent increases, compensation and terminations. Application fees are low, you do not need a lawyer, and you can bring your own evidence.

   Next step: Apply online at ncat.nsw.gov.au. Bring your agreement, condition report, photos and written communications.

3. Watch the time limits

   s 44

   Several tenancy applications have deadlines — for example challenging a termination notice before the date it takes effect, or applying about a rent increase before it starts. Missing the window can cost you the argument.

   Next step: As soon as you get a notice, write the key date on your calendar and get advice that week.

4. Your evidence decides your case, not your feelings

   s 44

   Tribunals decide on the documents and witnesses in front of them. Your lease, the condition report, photos with dates, receipts, texts and emails, and any inspection or repair records are what matter. Assemble them in date order before the hearing.

   Next step: Build one folder (or PDF) of your evidence in date order, with the key documents labelled.