Tenancies Mediation

In reply to the Hon. D.G.E. HOOD (17 June 2020).

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer): I have been provided the following advice:

The Small Business Commissioner, who has responsibility for the relevant sections of the COVID-19 Emergency Act 2020 and relevant regulations, has advised that as at the close of business on 18 June 2020 he was dealing or had dealt with a total of 50 commercial landlord and tenant matters.

Of the 50 cases, I am advised 38 remain in progress as at 18June 2020.

Of the remaining 12 cases, I am advised that

Six matters have been successfully closed after an application for mediation was lodged but prior to mediation occurring, as an approach was made to the other party to the lease and this prompted resolution of the rental dispute.

Two matters have been successfully resolved at mediation.

One matter which went to mediation was not resolved and a mediation certificate was issued by the Small Business Commissioner which will allow the matter to be dealt with in the Magistrates Court on application by one or both parties.

Two cases have been closed after the parties reached agreement following advice from the Office of the Small Business Commissioner (no mediation).

One matter resulted in a mediation certificate being issued after the Office of the Small Business Commissioner did not receive any response to a request for mediation from the lessor.

The Small Business Commissioner also advises that since January 2020, inquiries relating to commercial leasing matters have increased considerably with his office dealing with 1099 inquiries form 1January 2020 to 18 June 2020 compared with 614 inquiries in the period 1July 2019 to 31December 2019.