Challenge a decision about a medical research procedure

Apply to have VCAT decide on whether a medical research procedure is appropriate for someone. 

Under the Medical Treatment Planning and Decisions Act 2016, Victorians can appoint a medical treatment decision maker or support person to help them make decisions about medical research procedures.

You can apply to have VCAT decide on whether a medical research procedure is appropriate for someone.

Who can apply?

Most people can apply.

VCAT may decide to reject an application if we do not believe the applicant has a special interest in the affairs of the person who a medical research procedure is for.

What we can do

  • Decide whether a decision about a medical research procedure is valid, effective or appropriate.
  • Provide advice or direction to a medical treatment decision maker about their authority to consent to a medical research procedure on behalf of someone else.

What we cannot do

We cannot appoint a medical treatment decision maker or support person on someone’s behalf.

For information on how to appoint someone, contact the Office of the Public Advocate

Cases we can't help with

We can’t accept:

  • some cases where one party lives in another state or is a Commonwealth government organisation
  • cases heard under federal law instead of Victorian law.
Learn more

Documents you need to apply

  • A current medical report which addresses the person’s capacity to make medical treatment decisions – download our medical report template and give this to their medical practitioner.
  • Any other documentation to support your case.

Apply

We can explain the application process and what the form is asking you for. Contact us to get support.

We cannot give you legal advice. This means we cannot tell you what to write in your application or recommend how to get the outcome you want.

Seek legal help if you are unsure about your options or need advice about your claim.

Make an application

Make an application

Watch our video on how to apply and manage your online application.

Print-friendly application form

Apply online

Do I need a lawyer or professional representative?

You do not need to have legal or other professional representation to appear at VCAT. If you wish to be represented by a lawyer or a professional advocate, usually you must ask for VCAT's permission.

Be aware that the regulatory body in most cases uses legal representation.

Find legal services that may be able to assist you.

Access and privacy

VCAT hearings and files are usually public.

VCAT has limited authority to restrict who can access cases and files but, in certain circumstances, you can apply for confidentiality.

Legislation that applies to this type of case

Organisations that may be able to help you

VCAT can't offer you legal advice. Below are organisations that may be able to help with your case.

Office of the Public Advocate

Advice on guardianship and advocacy matters for Victorians living with a disability. Also undertakes the role of guardian for some Victorians.

https://www.publicadvocate.vic.gov.au/

See more organisations