Co-operatives National Law Application Act 2013 (review)

This page provides general information and shouldn't be considered as legal advice. Seek legal advice if you're unsure about your legal rights. Be aware that the law can change.

VCAT can review certain limited decisions made by the Registrar of Co-operatives under Part 7.3 of the Co-operatives National Law (National Law) which applies in Victoria by the provisions of the Co-operatives National Law Application Law 2013.

The National Law is an annexure to the Co-operatives National Law Application Act 2013.

Cases we can hear

The applicant for the decision or the co-operative can apply to VCAT to review a decision by the Registrar of Co-operatives under Part 7.3 of the National Law:

• to refuse or fail to approve draft rules
• to refuse or fail to approve a draft disclosure statement
• to refuse or fail to register a co-operative
• to refuse or fail to approve an amendment of rules
• to refuse or fail to register an amendment of rules
• made on a review of, or failure to review, a decision concerning liquidator's remuneration.

The participating co-operative can also apply to VCAT to review the Registrar's decision to give notice that a participating co-operative's authorisation to carry on business in Victoria will be withdrawn.

The National Law: clauses 571–577 set out the applications that may be made and who may apply – read them carefully. In Part 7.3 a reference to an appeal includes a reference to a review.

Cases we cannot hear

Note that VCAT is the 'designated tribunal' only for applications under Part 7.3 of the National Law.

The Magistrates' Court of Victoria is the 'designated tribunal' for all other purposes.

Legislation that gives VCAT the power to hear these applications

Section 11 of the Co-operatives National Law Application Law Act 2013

If you have a decision document, use it to help you complete the VCAT application form and attach a copy of the document to your application.

Time limits

There is no time limit to making an application to VCAT.

What can VCAT order?

Unless the relevant Act of Parliament gives us different powers, VCAT can:

• affirm the original decision, in which case the original decision will stand
• vary the decision
• set aside the decision and substitute our own decision
• set aside the decision and remit (send back) the matter for reconsideration by the decision maker giving directions or recommendations
• invite the decision-maker to reconsider their decision at any time during the 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.

Do I need a lawyer or professional representative?

You don't need to have legal or other professional representation to appear at VCAT. If you want 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.