Possible discussion points:
- VCAT is less formal, less costly and less time consuming dispute resolution body than going to court.
- The role of VCAT is to provide Victorians with a fair, low-cost, informal, accessible, and independent tribunal delivering an efficient and timely resolution of civil disputes. In most cases, a party does not need legal representation, but if a party does they would need to ask VCAT’s permission to have someone represent them as VCAT tries to encourage parties in a dispute to represent themselves where possible.
VCAT decisions can only be appealed to the Supreme Court of Victoria (Trial Division and Court of Appeal) on a point of law. A party must apply for permission to appeal a VCAT decision, which is called seeking leave to appeal. To appeal a decision made by a VCAT member who is a judge of the Supreme Court or County Court, you must seek leave to appeal from the Court of Appeal. To appeal a decision made by any other VCAT member (who is not a judge of the Supreme Court or County Court), you must seek leave to appeal from the Supreme Court.