An independent tribunal that actively resolves disputes in a way that is fair, just, accessible, quick and inexpensive. QCAT began operations on 1 December 2009, amalgamating 18 tribunals and 23 jurisdictions into one tribunal. As a tribunal, not a court, and in keeping with statutory requirements QCAT acts with as little formality and technicality as possible.

The tribunal makes decisions on a range of matters for the first time (original decisions) and reviews decisions previously made by government agencies and statutory authorities (review decisions) across administration for adult matters, administrative decisions, anti-discrimination matters, building disputes, children and young people matters, consumer disputes, debt disputes, guardianship for adult matters, occupational regulation matters (related to professionals and trades), minor civil disputes (valued up to and including $25,000), other civil disputes, residential tenancy disputes, retail shop lease disputes and tree disputes.

QCAT operates outside of the Brisbane CBD through the Magistrates Court. These courts (except Brisbane Magistrates Court) can receive all QCAT applications and deal with minor civil dispute matters. Check the Queensland Courts website for operating hours.