What if I need support when appearing at QCAT?
QCAT allows parties to attend proceedings with a support person if required. The support person is not able to address QCAT on your behalf or speak during proceedings. However, they can be there during the proceeding to provide you with support.
If you wish to have a support person appear at proceedings with you, you should email QCAT before your proceeding date and provide the details of the support person appearing with you.
Alternatively, you can also apply for permission to have representation from a solicitor or another person in QCAT proceedings, as set out below.
Where can I get legal advice and support?
For legal advice:
- Contact the private solicitor of your choice
- Use Queensland Law Society’s Find a Solicitor service
- Contact Legal Aid Queensland on 1300 65 11 88
- Contact Community Legal Centres Queensland for details on your local community legal centre on 07 3392 0092
For assistance in legal proceedings:
LawRight’s Court and Tribunal Services
LawRight is an independent, non-profit community based legal organisation that coordinates pro bono legal services for individuals and community groups. Parties with proceedings in QCAT may be able to obtain assistance from LawRight’s Court & Tribunal Services to self-represent or in limited circumstances, be given representation.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible for assistance from LawRight or wish to make an enquiry, contact the service by phone on 07 3564 7561, or email at qcat.cts@lawright.org.au or writing to PO Box 12217, George Street QLD 4003.
To apply for help from LawRight, please complete this application form. If you are unable to complete the online form, contact LawRight to discuss alternative arrangements.
Community legal centres
Caxton Legal Centre
The Caxton Legal Centre 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.
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 years who live in or around Brisbane. Telephone support is also provided to young people outside of Brisbane and throughout Queensland.
*Disclaimer – The above information was taken from the Queensland Civil & Administrative website as accurate in January 2023. If any changes are made by the court from that date they may not be reflected in this post