Money disputes happen when someone believes they’re owed money or have lost money because of someone else.
In Queensland, money disputes can be resolved through the court system. You may also try to resolve the issue privately or through alternative dispute resolution first.
If you’re the plaintiff (the person making the claim) and the court rules in your favour, it will usually order the other party to pay you.
If they don’t pay, you can take steps to enforce the order and recover the debt.
Examples of money disputes
Common examples of money disputes include:
- unpaid debts—when a person or business doesn’t pay for goods, services, or loans
- breach of contract—when a contract isn’t honoured, causing financial loss
- property damage—when property is damaged and compensation is needed
- unpaid rent or lease issues—when disputes arise over rent, fees, or bond deductions
- loan repayment disputes—when a borrower doesn’t repay as agreed.
Amount claimed
The amount of money claimed in a money dispute can be:
- an agreed or fixed amount (e.g. unpaid rent or loan repayments)
- an unknown amount (e.g. financial loss from a breach of contract).
Which courts hear money disputes
The court that hears your money dispute depends on the amount involved:
| Amount | Court |
|---|
| Up to $150,000 | Magistrates Court |
| Between $150,001 and $750,000 | District Court |
| Over $750,000 or complex cases | Supreme Court |
Disputes up to $25,000
Disputes involving amounts up to $25,000 are generally heard by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
Starting a court action
If someone owes you money or has caused you financial loss, you can start a court action by filing a claim and statement of claim.
These documents explain your case, the amount you’re claiming, and why you’re entitled to it.
Once filed, the documents must be given to (‘served on’) the other party to notify them of your claim.
Read more about starting a court action.
Judgment of the court
After hearing evidence and arguments from both sides, the court may make a decision. This is called a judgment.
If the court agrees with your claim, it may order the other party (the debtor) to pay you (the creditor) an amount of money.
If the other party doesn’t respond to your claim or has no valid defence, you can apply for a judgment without a full hearing.
Read more about applying for a judgment.
