Guide · updated November 2026

QCAT minor debt claims for unpaid invoices

QCAT: minor civil dispute (minor debt) (up to $25,000)

Apply online using the Application for minor civil dispute – minor debt (Form 3). Anyone can apply, including businesses. The respondent has 28 days after being served to respond. Recoverable costs are limited (filing fee, service costs, company or business name searches).

Source: QCAT: minor civil dispute (minor debt)

Magistrates Court of Queensland (up to $150,000)

File a claim and statement of claim for debts above the QCAT limit. Consider legal advice.

Source: Magistrates Court of Queensland

Try to resolve the debt directly first: QCAT expects it.

In NSW, VIC and QLD you generally have 6 years from when the money became due to start a claim for a contract debt.

More: Letter of demand for an unpaid invoice: what to include · Unpaid invoice reminder emails that actually get paid · Recovering an unpaid invoice in NSW · Recovering an unpaid invoice in Victoria · Can you charge interest on late invoices? · Payment plan agreements for overdue invoices · Statutory demands: a cautious explainer