Agricultural tenancy

Agricultural tenancy laws apply to farms one hectare or larger and occupied or used by a tenant for agricultural purposes.

Disputes include land deterioration or land condition, weed growth, financial benefits flowing from the use of the land or making of improvements, and termination of the tenancy.

How to apply

Download and complete an application form. Lodge your application at any NCAT Registry or Service NSW service centre.

• Commercial List Application Form (PDF , 263.1 KB)
  

Fees

Fees are payable for agricultural tenancy applications. View our fees and charges.

Time limits

You must apply to NCAT within 3 months of the dispute arising or ending the tenancy.

If you apply outside of the time limit, you can request a time extension as part of your application. NCAT will not always agree to a request for a time extension

What happens next

Agricultural tenancy cases are generally listed for conciliation and hearing. Check the notice of hearing from NCAT and follow the instructions provided.

Can someone represent me?

Most people can represent themselves at NCAT. You are encouraged to run your own case without needing a lawyer or other representative. If you want to be represented at your NCAT hearing, find out how to request representation.

Orders NCAT can make

NCAT can make the following orders in agricultural tenancy cases:

• payment for an amount of money or compensation (not exceeding $500,000)
• termination of a tenancy
• orders to remedy a​ breach of a term of a tenancy
• orders requiring an action to be done
• amendment of record of condition of farm
• access orders to recover goods or fixtures.

Legislation

The following legislation applies to agricultural tenancy disputes.

• Agricultural Tenancies Act 1990
• Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2013