Tribunal Victory: How Evidence-Based Documentation Wins Bond Disputes

Tenancy and social housing cases are first listed for conciliation and hearing. Check the notice of hearing from NCAT and follow the instructions provided. Success at rental tribunals across Australia depends primarily on one factor: comprehensive evidence.

Winning Strategies Across States

The Tribunal member hearing your case will need evidence that supports your arguments. If possible, take 3 copies of documents you want to use – one each for you, the landlord/agent and the Tribunal Member.

Essential evidence includes:

• Timestamped photographs
• Written correspondence (emails, texts)
• Receipts for all payments
• Maintenance request records
• Properly sworn witness statements

Recent Success Patterns

Tribunals increasingly favor tenants who document systematically. The tenant wants an order that the landlord comply with a duty or pay compensation because a problem identified in a Breach of Duty notice has not been fixed by the landlord. Common winning scenarios include:

• Compensation for unlawful entry
• Bond returns for unsubstantiated claims
• Urgent repair orders
• Invalid termination challenges

State-Specific Considerations

NSW (NCAT): Most people represent themselves at NCAT. You can conduct your own case without a lawyer or other representative. Application fees typically $50-75, often waived for concession holders.

Victoria (VCAT): Launching in June 2025, RDRV provides a fast, cheap, fair one-stop shop for renters and rental providers to resolve their disputes. New free service for bond and compensation disputes.

Queensland (QCAT): QCAT can make a range of orders to resolve residential tenancy and rooming accommodation disputes. Parties can apply for a tenancy hearing using a QCAT form 2.

Preparation Timeline

1. Document issues immediately when they arise
2. Submit written notices to landlord/agent
3. Allow reasonable time for response
4. Gather all supporting evidence
5. File tribunal application promptly
6. Prepare clear, chronological presentation

Free Legal Support

If you need help to apply to the Tribunal, or to respond to a Tribunal matter, tenants and rooming residents can contact the Tenants Queensland Statewide Tenant Advice and Referral Service (QSTARS) on 1300 744 263.

Bondinator transforms move-in and exit inspections into comprehensive documentation. Capture property conditions with timestamped photos, generate professional reports instantly, and save hours compiling evidence. When bond disputes arise, you'll have tribunal-ready documentation that significantly increases your chances of getting your bond back in full.

References

• Tenancy and social housing | NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal
• NSW Civil & Administrative Tribunal | Tenants' Union
• Going to the Tribunal to Solve a Tenancy Dispute – Tenants Queensland
• Residential tenancy disputes | Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal
• Residential tenancies - House - tenant compensation or compliance | VCAT
• Residential tenancies | VCAT