VCAT Foundations

Prepare for VCAT with a clear plan, organised evidence and defensible decision-making.

Overview

VCAT hearings can be stressful, particularly when you are balancing legal requirements, human rights considerations and organisational expectations. Staff are often working under tight timelines, with complex files, incomplete information and high pressure to present a clear and defensible case.

This practical online workshop provides a step-by-step approach to preparing and presenting at VCAT. Participants will learn how the Tribunal process works, what evidence matters most, how to organise documentation, and how to present information clearly and professionally. The focus is on reducing uncertainty, improving confidence and strengthening the quality of case preparation in tenancy matters.

Why this course matters

• Reduce risk of poor outcomes caused by weak preparation or missing evidence

• Improve confidence and professionalism when representing your organisation

• Strengthen compliance with RTA requirements and VCAT processes

• Reduce adjournments and delays through clearer documentation and presentation

• Support defensible decision-making that aligns with human rights obligations

• Improve consistency across teams in how cases are prepared and presented

What particpants will learn

• How VCAT hearings work and what to expect on the day

• Step-by-step preparation processes for tenancy-related VCAT matters

• What evidence to gather, how to assess relevance, and how to organise it clearly

• How to prepare applications, notices and supporting documents correctly

• Structuring a clear case narrative that supports your decision-making

• Presenting calmly and professionally under pressure

• Applying the Human Rights Charter and person-centred practice appropriately

• A repeatable preparation framework to reduce errors and improve confidence

Who should attend

• Housing Officers and Tenancy Practitioners

• Team Leaders managing tenancy compliance matters

• Housing Managers and Operational Managers

• Staff responsible for VCAT applications and evidence preparation

• Staff who attend VCAT hearings as organisational representatives

• Complaints, compliance and tenancy sustainment staff

Organisational benefits

• Improved hearing outcomes through stronger preparation and evidence quality

• Reduced legal and reputational risk through defensible case presentation

• Greater consistency in documentation and decision-making processes

• Reduced staff time lost through adjournments and rework

• Increased workforce confidence in managing complex tenancy enforcement matters

What participants will receive

• Practical preparation steps and evidence organisation tools

• Guidance on building a clear hearing plan and case narrative

• Tips for professional presentation and managing pressure

• Frameworks for applying RTA and human rights obligations in hearings

Facilitator - Charlotte Timmermans

Charlotte has 15 years’ experience in both the private and community housing sector. She is passionate about social justice and working to provide access to safe and affordable housing for all. Her experience in community housing includes front-line tenancy management and leading a team to deliver supportive housing programs, including the Homelessness to Home and Homes for Families Programs.

At CHIA Vic, Charlotte helps community housing organisations by providing practice guidance, coordinating peer learning, and creating practical resources to support continual service improvement.