How do I prepare text message evidence for NCAT, VCAT or QCAT?
Last reviewed 31 October 2026
NCAT, VCAT and QCAT all ask for numbered, copied documents, but none of their evidence pages mentions text messages or screenshots. Prepare a dated, page-numbered printout of the whole conversation, bring copies for everyone, follow your hearing notice, and ask the registry how it wants messages presented.
What do the three tribunals say?
| NCAT (NSW) | VCAT (Vic) | QCAT (Qld) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copies | Copies for the other parties and the Member | Copies for the member and the other parties | Serve copies by the date in your directions |
| Numbering | Number attachments in the order you mention them | Not specified | Number each page; explain attachments in your statement |
| Generally not accepted unless directed | Not specified | Allowed, but you may be asked for printed copies | |
| Digital material | No digital section | Ask for equipment one week ahead; tenancy photos need a declaration form | USB audio, video and photos need a signed declaration |
| Texts or screenshots | Not mentioned | Not mentioned | Not mentioned |
Sources, read on 31 October 2026: NCAT, VCAT, QCAT.
How do I prepare my messages?
- Keep the original chat on your phone. Delete nothing.
- Export the whole conversation, not only the good bits. See how to export a WhatsApp chat to PDF with dates.
- Keep screenshots too, but see screenshot or export.
- Put the key messages in date order, number the pages and add a one-line index.
- Print copies for the tribunal and each party.
- Voice notes: keep the audio and add a transcript.
What should I ask the registry?
- Printed, or on a USB?
- Do I need a declaration for photos or audio?
Where can I get help?
Tenants' Union of NSW, Tenants Victoria and Tenants Queensland run advice services.
VaultXT builds a dated pack on your device and nothing is uploaded: Make a pack, then check a pack. A pack records what the chat showed. It doesn't prove a message is genuine. See also NCAT guide, the Australian law overview and landlord disputes.
Questions people ask
Will NCAT, VCAT or QCAT accept WhatsApp messages?
We can't say. Their evidence pages don't mention messages, and the tribunal decides. Ask the registry.
Can I email my messages to the tribunal?
NCAT generally doesn't accept evidence by email, and QCAT may ask for printed copies. Follow your notice.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not for preparing a bundle, but a community legal centre can check it.
General information, not legal advice. Tribunal directions come first. VaultXT is owned by the publisher of this page.