In Queensland the Small Claims Tribunal is authorised to hear tenancy disputes covered by the Residential Tenancies Act and the Residential Services Accommodation Act.

The tribunal can hear claims up to $7,500 (there is no limit on the amount if the dispute is about a bond). Depending on the amount of the dispute a filing fee of between $13.50 and $74.00 applies to lodge an application for a hearing. Parties must usually apply for a hearing at the tribunal located closest to the rental premises.

The tribunal is not a court, legal representation is not allowed and parties must represent themselves. Small Claims Tribunal decisions are final and binding on both parties and there is no right to appeal decisions.

If you are notified about a tenancy hearing in the Small Claims Tribunal it is important to attend. If you are not present a decision will be made solely on evidence presented by the other party.

If the Tribunal makes a decision and you were not present at an original hearing because you did not receive the Tribunal notice or serious circumstances prevented you from attending you can apply to the Tribunal for a re-hearing of the matter. You must lodge this application within 28 days of the original decision. The tribunal will not automatically grant your request for a re-hearing.

For information about going to the Small Claims Tribunal see the information sheet below. The RTA booklet Handing Tenancy Disputes in the Small Claims Tribunal is also available on the RTA website.

If you need help to apply to the Small Claims Tribunal, or respond to a Small Claims Tribunal matter, you can contact the Tenants' Union of Queensland Statewide Telephone Advice Service or your local Tenant Advice and Advocacy Service.

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