Neighbours

Tenants are entitled to live in a safe, healthy and peaceful environment. Sometimes this environment can be disrupted by neighbours.

What do I do if I have a problem with my neighbour?

Most minor neighbourhood disputes can be resolved if all parties are prepared to simply talk to each other. Sometimes the person is not aware that they are disturbing your peace and enjoyment. When talking with your neighbour, be clear about what the issue or problem is and try to discuss the problem with your neighbour in a calm and constructive way.

The department understands that sometimes you don't feel comfortable in talking to your neighbour for fear or retribution, or due to the seriousness of the dispute, or sometimes don't know who the appropriate agency is to handle your complaints.

You can:

• talk to your neighbour if you feel comfortable doing so before it becomes serious
• talk to your nearest Housing Service Centre for advice or referral to the appropriate authority
• lodge a complaint with your nearest Housing Service Centre in the first instance
• use the Department of Justice and Attorney-General's Dispute Resolution Centre if you cannot resolve the matter and are prepared to engage a third party to help resove the dispute.
• contact the Queensland Police Service immediately should the situation become serious and/or you feel your safety, property or pets are in danger
• contatct the Housing Appeals and Review Unit to lodge a further complaint or if youdo not feel comfortable in talking directly to staff at the nearest Housing Service Centre.

Will the department help with the dispute?

The department will intervene in neighbourhood problems only where intervention is justified and required under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.

The department will not play the role of Police or the Dispute Resolution Centre. However, the department can help by referring you to the appropriate agencies, who may be able to help you in resolving your problems.

What is the Dispute Resolution Centre?

The Dispute Resolution Centre provides mediation services and can help you by settling a dispute without legal action. The Dispute Resolution Centre is run by the Department of Justice and Attorney-General and involves guiding discussions between the two parties involved to work out an agreement that suits them both. Mediators will not take sides and will not make judgements. The service maintains your privacy, is usually free, helps you make your own decisions about the dispute and most importantly, will help to have the problem resolved.

For more information, visit the Dispute Resolution Centre website or contact them on 3239 6007 within Brisbane, or toll-free on 1800 017 288.

How do I contact the Dispute Resolution Centre in my area?

Contact your nearest Housing Service Centre which has the contact number for the Dispute Resolution Centre in your area or call the Department of Justice and Attorney-General which can also help you with obtaining contact details.

What if mediation doesn't work?

If mediation has not worked for you, you still have other options, including legal action, to have your dispute resolved. Discuss these options with the Dispute Resolution Centre.