Guardianship and Administration Stream - TASCAT

Introduction to TASCAT - Guardianship and Administration Stream

TASCAT, the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, is an independent statutory decision maker that plays a crucial role in appointing guardians or administrators to make important decisions for individuals with impaired decision-making ability. Located in Hobart, Tasmania, the Guardianship Stream of TASCAT is dedicated to providing a fair and efficient process for making decisions that benefit individuals who are unable to make reasonable judgments about personal and financial matters.

With a team of experienced members from legal, medical, accounting, and community backgrounds, TASCAT is well-equipped to handle complex cases and provide expert guidance and support. The Tribunal's primary goal is to ensure that individuals with impaired decision-making ability receive the care and support they need, while also respecting their rights and autonomy.

TASCAT's approach is centered around the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability. The Tribunal is committed to providing a user-friendly and accessible process for applicants, respondents, and other stakeholders. With a strong focus on client service, TASCAT strives to deliver timely and effective decisions that meet the needs of all parties involved.

As a statutory authority, TASCAT is bound by the Guardianship and Administration Act 1995, which has undergone significant amendments effective from 1 September 2024. The Tribunal has updated its forms, information sheets, and other materials to reflect these changes, and applicants are encouraged to use the new applications and forms from 1 September 2024.

Main Practice Areas and Specializations

The Guardianship Stream of TASCAT specializes in making decisions about guardianship and administration orders, including:

• Appointing guardians to make personal decisions for individuals with impaired decision-making ability
• Appointing administrators to manage the financial affairs of individuals with impaired decision-making ability
• Reviewing and revoking existing guardianship and administration orders
• Resolving disputes about the care and support of individuals with impaired decision-making ability

TASCAT's expertise extends to handling complex cases involving:

• Complex financial transactions, such as the sale of a house or restrictions on a bank account
• Allegations of neglect, exploitation, or abuse of individuals with impaired decision-making ability
• Disputes within families or between families and service providers about the care and support of individuals with impaired decision-making ability

The Tribunal's members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the decision-making process, ensuring that all cases are handled with sensitivity, expertise, and a deep understanding of the complexities involved.

Geographic Focus and Office Locations

TASCAT's Guardianship Stream is based in Hobart, Tasmania, and provides services to individuals and families across the state. The Tribunal has a strong commitment to accessibility and convenience, with hearings taking place in each region of Tasmania when appropriate and at locations suitable for participants.

TASCAT's office locations include:

• Hobart: The main office is located in Hobart, where the Tribunal's administrative staff and members are based.

The Tribunal's court systems and tribunals covered include the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, the Supreme Court of Tasmania, and the Magistrates Court of Tasmania. TASCAT is also committed to providing services to remote and regional areas, with video conferencing facilities available to facilitate hearings and other proceedings.

Notable Expertise or Industry Focus

TASCAT's Guardianship Stream has developed a range of expertise and specializations, including:

• Complex guardianship and administration cases, involving multiple parties and complex financial transactions
• Disability and aged care law, with a focus on the rights and needs of individuals with impaired decision-making ability
• Family law, with a focus on disputes within families or between families and service providers about the care and support of individuals with impaired decision-making ability

The Tribunal has also developed a range of resources and guides to support individuals and families, including Easy Read guides and fact sheets. TASCAT's commitment to client service and accessibility has earned it a reputation as a leader in the field of guardianship and administration law.

TASCAT's members have received industry recognition and awards for their expertise and contributions to the field of guardianship and administration law. The Tribunal is also committed to ongoing professional development, with a range of education and training programs available to its members and staff.