3- The Role Of VCAT

Question 1

What is VCAT?

Answer 1

VCAT is the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal, and is a method of resolving civil disputes.

Question 2

What is the role of VCAT?

Answer 2

To provide cost-effective, timely and quality access to justice for Victorians.

Question 3

What are the 3 divisions of VCAT? Give examples of lists for each division.

Answer 3

The 3 divisions of VCAT are:

• Civil: residential tenancies
• Administrative : town planning
• Human rights: anti-discrimination

Question 4

What are the methods of dispute resolution used by VCAT?

Answer 4

Usually used less formal dispute resolution, such as:

• Mediation
• Conciliation

However if the dispute can’t be resolved this way, judicial determination may be used.

Question 5

How is VCAT cost-effective?

Answer 5

• For claims involving amounts less than $3,000 the cost is approximately $61.
• There is no fee for the Human Rights division.
• Legal representation is not required.

Question 6

How is VCAT timely?

Answer 6

• 80% of cases are settled within 9 weeks.

- Appropriate method of dispute resolution for time-sensitive matters.

Question 7

How does VCAT provide high quality service?

Answer 7

• VCAT personnel work in a specific division and develop expertise in that area.
• Guides parties to a decision with good quality advice.
• Parties reach a mutual agreement, which is necessary if they must maintain an ongoing relationship (eg, neighbours).

Question 8

How does VCAT relieve pressure from the courts?

Answer 8

• VCAT hears 90,000 cases per year which reduces pressure on the courts.
• Without VCAT there would be a backlog of minor civil cases for the Magitrates’ Court to hear.