QCAT Interpreter, Accessibility and Disability Support at Hearings

QCAT Provides Support — But You Have to Ask

The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal accommodates parties who need language interpreters, Auslan sign language support, mobility access, hearing or vision assistance, or safety arrangements (including for domestic violence situations). But the tribunal does not assume you need these services. You have to request them.

Make your request as early as possible — ideally in your response form or through direct written correspondence with the registry.

Language Interpreters

If English is not your first language and you need an interpreter for your hearing, QCAT will arrange and fund an accredited independent interpreter at no cost to you. The interpreter is provided by the tribunal, not by you.

A few important rules:

• Friends, family members, or bilingual helpers cannot act as your official hearing interpreter. The tribunal requires an accredited, independent interpreter to ensure accuracy and impartiality.
• Specify the language (and dialect, if relevant) when you make your request. The registry needs time to book an appropriate interpreter.
• If you need an interpreter for a mediation session as well as a hearing, request both separately — they may be scheduled on different dates.

Auslan and Hearing Support

Auslan interpreters are available for deaf and hearing-impaired parties. Request this through the registry in writing, and provide as much notice as possible so the tribunal can secure an available Auslan interpreter for your hearing date.

If you use a hearing aid or cochlear implant and need the hearing room set up with an audio loop or other assistive listening device, include this in your request.

Mobility and Physical Access

If you have mobility requirements, notify the registry in advance so it can discuss access arrangements for your hearing venue.

Domestic Violence and Safety Arrangements

If attending a hearing with the other party raises safety concerns, contact the registry in writing as early as possible to discuss available arrangements. These arrangements are not automatic.

How to Make the Request

Include your accessibility or support needs in one of these ways:

• In your Form 7 response — the form has a section for special requirements
• By writing to the registry — email or post a letter to the filing registry named on your case papers
• By phone — call QCAT's Civil Registry at 1300 753 228 and explain what you need

Do not wait until the hearing day to mention your requirements. Interpreter bookings take time, and room arrangements cannot always be made on the spot.

For the full response process — including hearing preparation and what to bring on the day — the Responding to a QCAT Minor Civil Dispute guide covers each step with printable checklists.

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