1. Before you apply to QCAT
You can apply for permission to be represented if you are an applicant, respondent, or active party in a proceeding before QCAT. It is important that parties tell QCAT in detail why they want to be represented.
Before you apply, please ensure you have read the above information and understand the differences between appearance and representation. Please ensure you understand that you do not need QCAT’s permission to get legal advice or assistance.
Before applying you must also ensure the request you are making is clear and concise. You must provide sufficient reasons with supporting material (if required) as to why the request should be granted.
2. Fees
There is no prescribed fee to make this application.
3. Complete and lodge online (Brisbane only)
If you live in Brisbane, QCAT now offers an online portal for you to securely file applications, referrals or documents electronically, view, manage and respond to your case. This fully-digital case management system makes filing and managing your case easier and more accessible by allowing you to:
- view case information and documents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; access via desktop, laptop, mobile phone, and tablet
- receive case updates and notifications in real time
- lodge documents any time on any day of the week
4. Complete and lodge this form (outside of Brisbane)
If you live outside of Brisbane, or you cannot access the online portal, you can make an application for permission to be represented by a legal practitioner or other representation by clicking the link below and complete the online form or lodge the appropriate application form below. Carefully read the form instructions, answer each question and tick an appropriate box when prompted.
When filing your application via our online service you do not need to file any extra copies.
When filing the application in hard copy, you are required to file the application and supporting material along with three copy in one of the following ways:
| Email to the QCAT Brisbane registry (if the matter is listed in Brisbane)* | enquiriesQCAT@justice.qld.gov.au |
|---|---|
| Email to your local Magistrates Court (if the matter is listed outside of Brisbane)* | Click here to find a list of Queensland Magistrates Courts. |
| In person or via mail to your local Magistrates Court* | Click here to find a list of Queensland Magistrates Courts. |
| In person at the Brisbane registry | Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal |
| Mail to the Brisbane registry | Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal |
*If your matter relates to a tenancy dispute your evidence/response should be submitted to the courthouse nearest the rental property.
Form 56 - Application for leave to be represented
The purpose of this form is to ask QCAT for permission to be represented in your matter.
5. Giving your application to other parties
If you file an application for permission to be represented via QCAT’s online service, copies of your application will be sent back to you to serve. You must give a copy of the application to each party and notify QCAT that you have done so.
If you file your application for permission to be represented via hard copy, at the time of filing your application at QCAT, you should also immediately give a copy of the application to the other parties. You must give a copy of the application to each party in the dispute.
You must provide evidence to QCAT that you have given the other parties your application. For example, if you email the application to QCAT ensure you copy the other parties into the email so QCAT can identify you have served all parties.
If you have given your application in hard copy to the other parties, notify QCAT in a cover letter when you file the application with QCAT.
6. What happens next?
After you have submitted your application for representation, QCAT will then consider the application and decide whether to grant your request.
Once QCAT has made a decision, QCAT will email or post you a copy of the directions or decision with the outcome.