Apply to be a Development Tribunal Referee

We are looking to appoint people from across Queensland to join the Development Tribunals as referees.

How to apply

To apply, you need to:

Nominations are now open and close 5pm, Wednesday 30 September 2026. Appointments will commence 8 March 2027 for a term of up to 3 years.

Who we are looking for

We need people with skills and experience in areas such as:

  • architecture
  • building (construction, certification, and surveying)
  • engineering (civil, fire, hydraulics, and structural)
  • fire safety
  • legal (environment, infrastructure, and planning)
  • planning
  • plumbing and drainage
  • pool safety.

Referees are expected to have the skills and expertise to successfully manage a Development Tribunal appeal. Referees should:

  • have strong written and verbal communication skills
  • be able to negotiate and mediate between parties to a proceeding
  • be able to apply the principles of natural justice (for example, procedural fairness, impartiality, and transparency in decision-making)
  • be able to analyse complex technical issues.

Referees will be paid according to government procedures for part-time chairs and members of Queensland Government bodies. You will only be paid when appointed to a tribunal to consider a specific appeal.

More information