58 - Resolving business disputes - how NCAT can help
How NCAT Works: A Practical Guide to Resolving NSW Small Business Disputes
Host and lawyer Melissa Bush explains how the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) helps NSW business owners resolve disputes more quickly, affordably, and informally than court. The episode outlines NCATā€™s divisions, focusing on the Consumer and Commercial Division for unpaid invoices, goods and services disputes, retail and commercial lease disputes, and home building matters, while noting other divisions relevant to licensing, regulation, discrimination, and professional conduct. Bush covers when to apply (after attempting written negotiation), how to lodge an application, and how to prepare evidence with organized documents, a timeline, and clear outcomes sought. She describes what happens at hearings and conciliation, discusses when lawyers are optional or useful and how representation may require permission, and explains enforceable orders NCAT can make, including payment, work completion, contract, and lease-related orders.
00:00 Business Disputes Intro
01:06 Podcast Welcome Disclaimer
02:14 NCAT Overview Roadmap
03:31 NCAT Divisions Explained
05:39 Common Business Disputes
07:41 When to Apply Process
08:53 Preparing Your Evidence
10:10 What Happens at Hearing
12:01 Do You Need Lawyer
14:40 Orders NCAT Can Make
16:14 Key Takeaways Next Steps
New South Wales Civil & Administrative Tribunal
NCAT Procedural Directions and Guidelines
https://ncat.nsw.gov.au/publications-and-resources/procedural-directions-and-guidelines.html
