NCAT introduced virtual hearings during COVID and never looked back. For most tenancy matters, you can now appear by phone or video conference rather than travelling to a Tribunal location. It's faster, cheaper, and (in our experience) less intimidating for first-timers.
Here's how to request one and what to expect.
When a virtual hearing makes sense
A virtual hearing usually works well when:
- You live a long way from the nearest Tribunal location
- Travel or time off work is genuinely impractical
- You have accessibility needs better met online
- The matter is reasonably contained — bond disputes, rent arrears, repair orders
It's less ideal where there are a lot of physical exhibits, multiple parties with different access needs, or where credibility is heavily contested and the Member may want to assess body language in person.
How to request one
NCAT has a dedicated Virtual Hearing Request Form. You can find the current version on the NCAT website (ncat.nsw.gov.au) under "Forms" — it's a short, single-page document.
You'll need to provide:
- The matter / file number
- The hearing date (if already scheduled)
- The reason you're requesting virtual attendance
- Your contact details (the email and phone you want to be reached on)
- Any technical limitations (e.g. you only have phone, not video)
Submit it as early as possible — ideally as soon as you receive your hearing notice. Late requests can still be granted, but giving NCAT and the other party plenty of notice avoids drama.
What happens on the day
You'll be sent a link or dial-in number ahead of time. A few practical tips:
- Test your tech first. Try the link the day before, not five minutes beforehand.
- Find a quiet space. Bedrooms and offices work better than kitchens. Background noise is distracting for everyone.
- Have your documents in front of you, not on the same screen. A second device or printed copies makes life easier.
- Stable internet matters. If your home wifi is unreliable, hotspot from your phone or move closer to the router.
- Treat it like a real hearing. Dress neatly, sit upright, address the Member as "Member" or "Sir/Madam." It's a Tribunal, just on a screen.
What about the other party?
Both sides don't have to attend the same way. It's common for one party to be in person while the other appears by video. The Member coordinates the format.
If technical issues come up
NCAT is generally accommodating. If your video drops or you can't hear, say so immediately rather than soldiering on. The hearing can pause, switch to audio-only, or be rescheduled if needed.
A practical note
For Hunter PM landlords, we attend NCAT on your behalf either in person or virtually depending on the matter. For tenants of our properties, we'd encourage you to engage with us before lodging anything — most issues that head to NCAT could've been sorted with a phone call.