This analysis of nearly 40,000 applications finalised in 2024 provides a unique view into how tenancy matters progress through the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). The report reveals patterns in dispute resolution, party roles, hearing outcomes and procedural timelines. 

The report provides detailed insights into how tenancy disputes are initiated, managed and resolved across the Residential Tenancy and Social Housing lists. It also provides a source of evidence to be considered as part of the New South Wales (NSW) Government’s broader review of NCAT’s role in the evolving rental landscape.

Key insights

• Landlords initiated most applications (76%), with tenant-initiated applications more common in the private rental sector.
• Conciliation was a key pathway, with one in four matters finalised by consent.
• Most tenancy applications were finalised promptly.
• Only 10% of matters escalated to a contested hearing.
• Warrant requests were common after termination orders, especially in social housing.