Disciplinary applications

SACAT can hear and determine disciplinary applications for a range of professions and occupations. These are usually to decide if a person has committed professional misconduct. SACAT can also review some licensing, registration or accreditation decisions.

Please note, the below is not a comprehensive list. You should seek legal advice to determine whether you can make an application to SACAT.

You may also contact SACAT, but please be aware that we cannot provide legal advice.

SACAT can hear disciplinary applications for the following professions:

  • Architects and architectural businesses
  • Building work contractors, supervisors and consultants
  • Conveyancers
  • Health practitioners
  • Land agents
  • Land valuers
  • Local government councillors
  • Plumbers, gas fitters and electricians
  • Second-hand vehicle dealers
  • Surveyors
  • Tow truck drivers
  • Veterinary surgeons and service providers

SACAT can hear applications to review licensing, registration and accreditation decisions for the following professions:

  • Architects and architectural businesses
  • Building work contractors and supervisors
  • Conveyancers
  • Employment agents
  • Hairdressers
  • Health practitioners
  • Land agents
  • Lobbyists
  • Plumbers, gas fitters and electricians
  • Second-hand vehicle dealers
  • Veterinary surgeons

Making an application as a consumer

Disciplinary action is usually brought to SACAT by the relevant regulatory authority or professional body. These bodies have dedicated resources to investigate and bring disciplinary action against an individual.

Members of the public can also make an application directly to SACAT in some circumstances where they believe a professional or member of an occupation has acted in a way that constitutes grounds for disciplinary action. This application is not to compensate consumers, but to protect the  public.

With these types of applications SACAT cannot:

  • Investigate a complaint
  • Resolve private disputes
  • Make orders to compensate a consumer for reimbursement under the terms of a contract or agreement
  • Enforce a duty to repair
  • Take immediate action about a person's conduct

If a member of the public brings a disciplinary application that is unsuccessful, then they may have an order made against them requiring that they pay the costs of the other party (e.g. the professional who the complaint is made against).

If you want one of these to happen, you will need to speak to the relevant regulatory body or professional board about your options in lodging a complaint. You may also seek legal advice about your options.



Common disciplinary applications