The Tenancy Tribunal

About the Tribunal

The Act

The Tenancy Tribunal is established under section 67 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986.

This Act:

• sets out the law relating to residential tenancies;

• defines the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants of residential properties;

• establishes a tribunal to resolve disputes between such landlords and tenants; and

• establishes a fund into which bonds payable by such tenants is held.

The Tribunal

The Tribunal provides landlords and tenants of residential properties with:

• a free mediation service; and (if that fails)

• a quick and inexpensive means of resolving disputes.

The Tribunal can hear any tenancy dispute specified in section 77 of the Act, but with a maximum of $12,000.

NOTE: The Tribunal conducts proceedings with minimal formality and technicality. It decides disputes according to the general principles of relevant law and the merits and justice of the case, but is not bound by strict legalities.

Adjudicators

Tenancy Tribunal hearings are heard by Tenancy Adjudicators.

Adjudicators are impartial and independent judicial officers. Most are lawyers. The Governor-General on the recommendation of the Ministers of Justice and Housing appoints them.

Administrative support

Day-to-day administrative support of the Tribunal is provided jointly by District Courts and Department of Building and Housing staff.

Department of Building and Housing case co-ordinators do the following:

• receive tenancy applications;

• provide a free mediation service;

• schedule the first hearing (if mediation fails or is not used);

• provide information, education and advice on tenancy matters;

• administer tenancy bonds.

Case Officers at the District Courts do the following:

• provide administrative support for the Tribunal and the adjudicators;

• schedule any rehearings that may be needed;

NOTE: Not all District Courts have a Tenancy Tribunal. See Tribunal locations for a list of those that do.