The main aim of the Residential Tenancies Tribunal is to provide for the informal and efficient resolution of disputes that arise under residential tenancy agreements. The tribunal does not have to follow the rules of evidence and can take evidence in whatever manner it thinks fit. The tribunal generally will not allow a person to be represented by a lawyer and will rarely award costs [Residential Tenancies Act 1995 s.38]. Parties present their own cases. If the property is managed by a land agent, the agent will usually appear for the landlord. Where a land agent appears the tenant can be represented by a solicitor if he or she so wishes. The tribunal can arrange a free interpreter if one is needed, the tribunal Registry should be informed prior to the hearing so that the necessary arrangements can be made. Wherever possible, applications are heard within two weeks and no later than six weeks after lodgement.

In most cases the tribunal is the only body that can hear tenancy disputes. The tribunal has the power to make binding orders on any aspect of residential tenancy agreements. Appeals against the Tribunal's decisions can be made within one month after the making of the decision or order to the District Court. Any claim, no matter the amount, may be appealed [Residential Tenancies Act 1995 s.41].

Applications for orders of the Tribunal must be lodged either personally or by post. Bond moneys must be lodged with the Commissioner for Consumer Affairs. The Tenancies Branch of the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs has a telephone advisory service that operates during work hours.