Anyone involved in a building dispute in New South Wales will likely encounter the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). Before lodging an application, it is important to understand the fees involved. NCAT application fees vary by division, claim type, and sometimes claim value, and they are updated annually. You may also be eligible for a reduced fee if you meet certain criteria. This article explains the current fee schedule, how reduced fees work, and the general rules around hearing costs so you can plan your dispute with confidence.
What Are NCAT Application Fees?
Application filing fees are payable when you lodge your matter with NCAT. The amount you pay depends on the division your case falls under, the type of claim, and in some cases the value of the claim. Fees are not fixed across all matters, for example, a general application has a different fee than a retail lease application. Fees are revised each year on 1 July in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Current NCAT Fee Schedule (from 1 July 2025)
The following table shows the standard fees for individuals and corporations, as well as the reduced or concession fee, based on the NCAT Fees and Charges Schedule effective from 1 July 2025.
| Matter type | Standard fee | Corporation fee | Reduced / concession fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| General application or external appeal | $127.00 | $254.00 | $32.00 |
| Administrative review application | $127.00 | $254.00 | $32.00 |
| To be determined by 2 or more members (general) | $264.00 | $528.00 | $66.00 |
| Retail leases (as at 26 June 2026 figures) | $132.00 | $264.00 | Not specified |
| Guardianship Division applications | No fee | No fee | No fee |
| Anti-discrimination and community services matters | No fee | No fee | No fee |
Note that fees increase on 1 July each year. For the 2025–2026 financial year, the figures above apply. The next change occurs on 1 July 2026. Under that update, a general application for orders and interim orders when lodged at the same time will cost $267 (standard) and $534 (corporation). External appeals will have their own updated fees. Always check the official NCAT website for the most current schedule before you lodge.
Reduced Fees and Fee Waivers
NCAT offers a reduced fee equal to 25 per cent of the full application or appeal fee, rounded to the nearest whole dollar. This concession is available to eligible persons, including those who hold certain concession cards or who are experiencing serious financial hardship. The reduced fee does not apply to general service fees, such as costs for copies or administrative requests. If you believe you qualify, you can apply for the reduced fee when you lodge your application.
In addition to reduced fees, no fees apply at all for certain types of matters. These include Guardianship Division applications, anti-discrimination complaints, and community services matters. Parties experiencing serious financial hardship may also apply for a full fee waiver. Details and application forms are available on the NCAT website.
Hearing Costs: Who Pays?
One of the most important aspects of a NCAT dispute is understanding how hearing costs are handled. The starting point in NCAT is that each party bears their own costs. This means that even if you win your case, you will generally not be reimbursed for your legal fees or other expenses.
However, the Tribunal may make an order for costs if special circumstances exist. The rules state that costs can be awarded where no special circumstances are required if the amount of money in dispute is more than $30,000. In those cases, the Tribunal has a discretion to order one party to pay some or all of the other party’s costs. Other factors that may lead to a costs order include the conduct of a party during the proceedings or the complexity of the matter.
It is important to keep in mind that costs orders are not automatic. You should seek legal or professional advice about whether your particular case might qualify, especially if the dispute involves a significant sum.
Practical Tips for Managing NCAT Fees
Before lodging your application, review the fee schedule to budget appropriately. If you are an individual with a low income, check whether you are eligible for the reduced fee. If your matter is one of the exempt categories you will not need to pay anything.
When preparing for a hearing, factor in the risk of a costs order. If your claim exceeds $30,000, the other party might seek costs if they are successful. Conversely, if you are defending a claim, you might consider making an offer to settle to limit your exposure. Engaging a building consultant who prepares expert reports and Scott Schedules can also help you present a strong case and potentially reduce the need for prolonged hearings.
Finally, remember that fees are updated each year on 1 July. Keep an eye on the NCAT website or consult with a professional to ensure you are using the correct fee schedule at the time of lodging.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to lodge an NCAT application?
As at 1 July 2025, a general application or external appeal costs $127 for an individual and $254 for a corporation. Fees are adjusted each year on 1 July. A reduced fee of $32 is available to eligible applicants. Retail lease applications under the 2026 schedule are $132 standard and $264 for corporations.
Can I get my NCAT application fee waived?
You may be eligible for a reduced fee of 25% of the full application fee if you hold a concession card or are experiencing serious financial hardship. The reduced fee applies to application and appeal fees only, not to general service fees. Full fee waivers are also possible in hardship cases. Check the NCAT website for details.
Does the losing party pay the winning party’s costs in NCAT?
Generally, each party bears their own costs in NCAT. However, the Tribunal can order costs if the amount in dispute exceeds $30,000, or if special circumstances exist. This is not automatic, and you should seek professional advice to understand your position.
Are there any NCAT applications that are free?
Yes. No fees apply for Guardianship Division applications, anti-discrimination complaints, and community services matters under the Community Services (Complaints, Reviews and Monitoring) Act 1993. Always verify the current list of exempt matters with NCAT.
Understanding NCAT application fees and hearing costs helps you make informed decisions about your building dispute. By knowing what to pay upfront and how costs may be awarded, you can better manage your budget and strategy. When in doubt, consult the NCAT website or a qualified professional for advice tailored to your situation.
