Review of QCAT Act to improve and enhance the vital service for Queenslanders
Queenslanders will be able to share their views of the effectiveness of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2009 (QCAT Act).
Under the QCAT Act, reviews are required to be conducted every five years.
The review will be the second evaluation of the QCAT Act after an initial review commenced in 2012 – three years after the tribunal’s establishment.
QCAT was established in 2009 after 18 tribunals, including the Small Claims Tribunal, Anti-Discrimination Tribunal and Teachers Disciplinary Committee, and 23 jurisdictions, were amalgamated.
The aim was to simplify and streamline the tribunal system with one entity to handle all complaints and grievances while increasing the community’s access to justice.
Having one entity, led by a Supreme Court Judge, has increased the efficiency and quality of decision making.
The review will examine ways to reduce procedural delays and improve QCAT usability for parties and improve QCAT meeting its statutory objectives.
Under its terms of reference, the review will:
- decide whether the objects of the QCAT Act remain valid
- decide whether the QCAT Act is meeting its objects
- decide whether the provisions of the QCAT Act are appropriate for meeting its objects
- investigate any specific issue recommended by the Minister or the QCAT President. The review will also examine the efficiency and effectiveness of the operational ease of use and access for all parties.
A consultation paper will be released shortly to assist interested stakeholders and the public provide their written submissions on ideas for statutory reform.
The review is due to be completed by early 2024.
ENDS.