What is the Court and Tribunal structure in Queensland?

Navigating the legal system begins with knowing which “room” you belong in. In Queensland, the court hierarchy is determined primarily by the monetary value of a civil dispute or the severity of a criminal charge.

1. Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT)

QCAT is a “low-cost” tribunal designed for simpler disputes. It is generally a no-costs jurisdiction, meaning each party pays their own lawyer, regardless of who wins.¹

• Civil Jurisidiction: Small claims up to $25,000, residential tenancy disputes, and dividing fence matters.
• Administrative: Reviews of government decisions (e.g., Blue Card cancellations) and guardianship matters.

2. Magistrates Court

The busiest level of the hierarchy, handling the vast majority of all legal matters in the state.

• Civil: Claims between $25,001 and $150,000.
• Criminal: All summary offences (like drink driving) and “committal” hearings for more serious crimes.

3. District Court

• Civil: Claims between $150,001 and $750,000.
• Criminal: Serious offences like armed robbery, rape, and dangerous driving causing death.
• Appeals: It also hears appeals from the Magistrates Court.

4. Supreme Court

The highest court in Queensland.

• Trial Division: Handles civil claims over $750,000 and the most serious criminal offences, such as murder, manslaughter, and high-level drug trafficking.
• Court of Appeal: A specialized division that hears appeals from the District and Supreme Court trial divisions.

5. Federal Courts (Family Law)

Note that Family Law is handled by the federal system—specifically the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA)—not the Queensland state courts listed above.

Related Topics

• Appealing a Court Decision
• What to do if You are Sued
• Court Etiquette Guide

Choosing the Right Jurisdiction

Starting your case in the wrong court can result in your claim being struck out or being ordered to pay the other side’s costs for the mistake. We ensure your matter is filed in the most strategic and cost-effective court for your specific goals.

Not sure where your case belongs? Contact Bell & Senior for a jurisdictional assessment. Call (07) 5532 8777.