Do I need a lawyer for VCAT in Victoria?

General information for people in Victoria · ORLA Connect

You don't always need a lawyer at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) — it's designed to be accessible, and in many lists you need the Tribunal's permission to be represented — but legal advice can help you prepare, especially for complex or higher-value disputes. Here's what to know.

What VCAT handles

VCAT deals with disputes such as consumer and goods-and-services claims, residential tenancy, building and owners-corporation matters, and reviews of some government decisions.

Being represented

In several lists, parties are expected to represent themselves and need permission to have a lawyer appear. Even so, you can usually get legal advice to prepare, without a lawyer appearing on the day.

When a lawyer helps

Complex facts, higher-value claims, or a well-resourced other side are situations where legal advice — or representation, if allowed — can make a real difference.

Get advice the easy way

Post your matter once on ORLA Connect and get matched with Victorian firms who can advise on your VCAT dispute and their fees — privately, before you commit. Free and no obligation.

This article is general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, post your matter and a matched Victorian law firm can help.