What do you want to do ?
Apply to VCAT
You are applying as a tenant about a bond issue for a house, unit, or apartment.
How to complete your application
1
Include all renters in this application
Applications for bond must include all renters (tenants) on the rental agreement as well as the rental provider (landlord).
If there are multiple renters on the agreement and you don't include them in this application the hearing may be delayed (adjourned).
2
Try to settle
You can try to resolve the issue yourselves without going to VCAT. You can contact the other party – or they can contact you – to try to come to an agreement (settle) before we make a decision.
You can try and resolve the issue right up until the hearing. If you do settle, you must let VCAT know.
It could save you the time and effort of legal action at VCAT.
3
Understand this is a legal process
There will be things that you will need to do. For example, preparing evidence, sending documents about the issue to the other party and presenting your side of the case at VCAT.
You and the other parties must follow VCAT's decision.
4
Find the right section number
You can write the section number of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 our issue falls under on the application form.
- Bond repayment - section 419A
- Bond and compensation - sections 419A, 452
5
Get the right details of who your issue is with
You must provide the other party’s correct details to avoid delays and to be able to enforce the outcome.
Make sure you include the other party’s phone number and email address (if possible) so we can contact them.
Make sure you use the name of the rental provider (landlord), not the estate agent. Find this on your rental agreement. You can ask your estate agent for a copy.
6
Tell VCAT and the other party what outcome you want
Describe your issue and make sure you say what orders you want VCAT to make.
The other party must be able to understand what your claim is about and what outcome you want.
If you don't include enough detail, your claim may be rejected or delayed.
If you are claiming further compensation you should must detail each item of loss or damage claimed, the amount claimed for each item and how the amount has been calculated.
7
Check bond details
To apply you need:
- the name of the renters on the rental agreement
- the amount of the bond paid by each resident and/or Director of Housing
- a copy of the bond receipt with the bond number(s)
To check if the bond has been paid or lodged, call the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA) on 1300 137 164 or go to http://www.rentalbonds.vic.gov.au
Search using the bond number and the family name of one of the renters or residents. If the bond has been dispersed or closed VCAT will be unable to order its release.
8
Have these documents ready
Submit these documents with your application:
- a copy of the RTBA bond receipt
At the hearing, you should have a copy ready of any quotation, account or receipt you want to use to support your claim.
9
Have your credit card ready
You pay when you submit your application. We only accept Visa or Mastercard online.