Legal advice and representation
All parties involved in a matter before QCAT must represent themselves. Whether you are represented or not you can still seek legal advice about your rights.
In some cases, a party is automatically able to be represented. QCAT will always agree to representation:
- for a child or person who has impaired decision making represented in proceedings, or
- if the matter relates to disciplinary proceedings including a review of a disciplinary decision, or
- if the enabling Act related to the matter allows it.
All other parties must apply to QCAT if they want to be represented. QCAT may agree to a party being represented if:
- the party is a State agency
- the proceeding is likely to involve complex questions of fact or law
- another party is being represented
- all of the parties have agreed to the party being legally represented.
You can either be represented by a lawyer or someone else who acts on your behalf, for example an advocate for a person with impaired capacity.
To apply to be legally represented, complete and lodge Application for leave to be represented.
Legal advice
You can seek legal advice about your rights from a lawyer at Legal Aid Queensland or a private lawyer. The Queensland Law Society may be able to refer you to a private lawyer.
You may also be able to obtain legal advice from the following community legal organisations:
Carers Queensland
Carers Queensland is the peak body that represents the interests of carers in Queensland. Carers Queensland’s Family Support & Advocacy Program can provide carers (throughout Queensland) with free support, information, advice and representation in regards to adult guardianship and administration matters.
Caxton Legal Centre (Brisbane)
The Caxton Legal Centre (Brisbane) is an independent, non-profit community organisation providing free legal and social work advice, assistance and referrals to the general public. Please note that the Caxton Legal Centre does not provide advice about building or other business and commercial disputes.
Queensland Aged and Disability Advocacy
The Queensland Aged and Disability Advocacy is a non-profit, community based advocacy service providing information, education, support and representation to enable people to understand and exercise their rights and their responsibilities.
Queensland Association of Independent Legal Services
The Queensland Association of Independent Legal Services is the peak body representing funded and unfunded Community Legal Centres operating throughout Queensland.
Queensland Public Interest Law Clearing House
The Queensland Public Interest Law Clearing House Incorporated (QPILCH) is an independent, non-profit community based legal organisation that coordinates the provision of pro bono legal services for individuals and community groups. QPILCH operates a Self Representation Service at QCAT to provide free legal advice and assistance to people involved in particular QCAT matters including guardianship and administration, children and young people and anti-discrimination matters.
Seniors Legal and Support Service
The Seniors Legal and Support Service is a free legal and support service for seniors concerned about elder abuse and financial exploitation.
Women's Legal Service
Women's Legal Service is a Community Legal Centre that provides free legal advice and information to Women in Queensland.
Youth Advocacy Centre
The Youth Advocacy Centre offers free confidential legal and welfare assistance to young people under 17 who live in or around Brisbane. Telephone support is also provided to young people outside of Brisbane and throughout Queensland.