Going to NCAT

If you can't resolve your dispute about goods, you may end up in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). However, it is a good idea to try to avoid going to NCAT by settling your dispute through negotiation or mediation, if possible. For more information, see Resolving your dispute​.

Which division?

Claims about uncollected goods are dealt with in the Consumer and Commercial Division of NCAT. 

NCAT can make an order for:

• Removal or disposal of the goods
• Delivery of the uncollected goods
• Sale of the uncollected goods
• Payment of compensation.
  

Time limits

The time limit for making a claim in NCAT depends on the type of order and the value of the goods. The time will usually start from:

• when the person who has the goods provided notice to the owner of the goods, or
• when the goods were left in the possession of the person, or
• when the agreement for the return of the goods ended.
  

If you think the time limit to make a claim has passed, you should get legal advice.  

If you left your goods with someone

If someone has your goods and won't return them, you will need to decide whether to start a case at NCAT.

Y​ou should carefully consider whether it is worth going to NCAT. For more information, see Should you go to NCAT?

If someone has left their goods with you

If the goods are worth more than $20,000 and you want to dispose of them, you must apply to NCAT for an order before you do.

If there is a dispute over the ownership over the goods and you believe they belong to you, you can apply to NCAT for an order. 

Step by step guide: Making an application for uncollected goods at NCAT

If someone is chasing you for goods and they apply to NCAT for an order, you will need to decide how to respond to the claim. You will receive a letter from NCAT giving you date and time to attend a conciliation and hearing. 

For more information, see:

• Conciliation on the NCAT website
• On the hearing day on the NCAT website.