Retired Federal Court Judge and former Supreme Court Justice, the Honourable David Thomas has been appointed to undertake the review of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2009 is required to be reviewed every five years, with the previous review finalised in 2018.
Mr Thomas is a former QCAT President and former President of the then Commonwealth Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
The QCAT Act Review will identify ways to alleviate the operational issues experienced by the tribunal and how these pressures can be eased in an efficient and timely manner.
The Queensland Law Society identified that urgent support for QCAT was required in the 2024 Call to Parties statement.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said: “We want to ensure that QCAT is appropriately designed to meet its objectives by focusing on the structure of the tribunal, legislation that confers jurisdiction and matters to the tribunal, and procedural and operational efficiencies.
“Following the growing increase of hearing delays and backlogs, ways to alleviate rising pressures of the tribunal will be identified. Mr Thomas brings extensive experience and reliable insight into QCAT’s position in Queensland’s broader court and tribunal system.
“He will consult broadly with the legal community, QCAT customers, and the small business community, following the new terms of reference.”
The review is due to be completed by 30 April 2026 with the final report to be tabled in the Legislative assembly.
More information can be found at:
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