When an appeal is received, the Registrar will determine if the appeal has been lodged within the prescribed time frame and whether to the Form 10 - notice of appeal ( 89 KB) and prescribed fee is included.

The Registrar will write to the respondent and co-respondent giving notice of the appeal and a copy of the appeal application. A tribunal will then be established by appointing one or more referees to the appeal, taking into account the necessary experience and/or qualifications required to determine the matter.

Parties will then be notified in writing of the date and time for the hearing or when written submissions are required.

The hearing is held at on office or on-site and the location will vary depending on the nature of the appeal. It is informal and not bound by rules of evidence and all persons appearing at the hearing are given reasonable opportunity to submit their case, focusing on the facts.

Facilitating negotiations between parties at the hearing may see agreement reached, however more commonly it is necessary for the chairperson to consider the facts of the case as presented and research relevant planning schemes, codes or regulations prior to reaching a decision.

If you can’t attend the hearing personally, you may provide a written submission or participate via teleconference or nominate an agent to act on your behalf.

You are free to seek legal advice regarding your application and matters relating to the appeal, however lawyers are not permitted at a hearing.