VCAT Civil Disputes – Trade Practices
Velos & Velos have extensive experience in civil disputes. If you are in a dispute about the supply of goods or services, Velos & Velos may be able to help you resolve the dispute and if not successful apply to VCAT to try to settle your dispute with the other parties. Anyone can apply to VCAT to resolve a dispute with: •
- a supplier or possible supplier; or
- purchaser or possible purchaser arising from:
- the supply or possible supply; or
- purchase or possible purchase of goods and services
Services must be supplied in trade or commerce and may include some claims relating to interests in real estate. Disputes may also include damages for breach of the provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1999 that occurred in trade or commerce. ‘Anyone’ includes:
- traders
- companies
- businesses
- consumers
- individuals
and regardless of whether the goods or services are for private or business use.
What are the time limits for applying?
You must bring claims under the Fair Trading Act 1999 within 6 years of the dispute. Further time limits may apply if the dispute arose before 1 September 1999. If this applies, you should contact VCAT on 9628 9830 or 1800 133 055 (within Victoria) for further information.
Claims under the Motor Car Traders Act 1986 must be made within 3 months. There is no limit to the amount you can claim. The person(s) you are making this claim against may counterclaim for the money you owe them.
Examples of claims under the Fair Trading Act and what Orders VCAT may make.