Celebrating success of NCAT’s Aboriginal Tenancy List

Announcement – 8 July 2025

During NAIDOC Week 2025, the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) celebrates the success of its Aboriginal Tenancy List - a culturally responsive initiative that has transformed the way tenancy disputes are resolved for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across NSW.

Launched in September 2023, the Aboriginal Tenancy List was created to provide a respectful and culturally sensitive environment where Aboriginal parties in a tenancy or social housing dispute can connect with support services and specialist Aboriginal tenants’ advocates.

The Aboriginal Tenancy List offers a unique and supportive experience for Aboriginal parties where participants can:

• Connect with support services and specialist Aboriginal tenants’ advocates
• Discuss their case with a designated Tribunal conciliator to help reach an agreement
• Have a Tribunal Member decide the case if an agreement cannot be reached independently.

The initiative has received recognition for its inclusive and culturally sensitive approach, leading to increased engagement by Aboriginal parties in the Tribunal process and a reduction in tenancy terminations.

In line with this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” NCAT is currently exploring ways to expand the reach of the Aboriginal Tenancy List to ensure more communities across NSW can benefit from its support.

If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, you can ask to have your case heard in the Aboriginal Tenancy List. Send an email to AboriginalTenancyList@ncat.nsw.gov.au to learn more.