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 NCAT’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 https://ncat.nsw.gov.au/ NCAT Procedural Directions and Guidelines https://ncat.nsw.gov.au/publications-and-resources/procedural-directions-and-guidelines.html