VCAT revamp is under way

Designs for Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal’s (VCAT) new headquarters have been released, with the state government preparing for the new site to be operational by next year to serve as the home of the state's new rental dispute service.

The new headquarters will consolidate VCAT’s metropolitan hearing and mediation rooms into one location at 308 La Trobe St, funded by a $106 million investment from the state government.

Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny unveiled the designs on March 28 for the new headquarters and confirmed Kane as the builders for the project, which will see its current base at 55 King St closed.

“With better facilities, improved accessibility, and dedicated spaces for legal support services, the new VCAT headquarters will make justice easier to navigate for all Victorians,” the Attorney-General said.

Designed in consultation with users and staff, the new venue will include remote witness facilities, allowing people to participate from the comfort of their homes. It will also feature a separate entrance and suite for at-risk and vulnerable users attending in person.

The venue will house the new Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) service, set to launch later this year, offering a fast and affordable way for renters, rental providers, and real estate agents to resolve disputes over rent, damages, repairs, and bonds.

Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos said, “This is an important milestone, and I look forward to the establishment of Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria this year to provide a faster, fairer, and more affordable avenue for dispute resolution.”

More than 60 per cent of disputes are expected to be resolved through RDRV, reducing the burden on VCAT while providing Victorians with a quicker and more cost-effective way to resolve rental matters.

VCAT handles more than 75,000 cases annually, helping people resolve a wide range of disputes efficiently and fairly.

The building will also feature enhanced accessibility and a dedicated space for Victorian Legal Aid, State Trustees, and the Office of the Public Advocate, strengthening access to legal and support services.

VCAT president Justice Ted Woodward said, “The new venue will bring VCAT’s two CBD venues together into one central location, close to numerous public transport links and better parking.”

VCAT is expected to begin operating from the new venue in 2026.