PRESS RELEASE: Castellan Consulting Helps One Agency Property Partners Secure Long-Awaited Possession Order

Melbourne, VIC – 20 February 2025 – Castellan Consulting is proud to have assisted One Agency Property Partners in Point Cook in securing a possession order, at VCAT, for their residential rental provider, resolving a complex dispute that had been dragging on for almost a year.

The case began when the residential rental provider issued a Notice to Vacate under section 91ZZB of the Residential Tenancies Act in February 2024. However, the renter refused to vacate after the termination date, leading to a drawn-out Tribunal process. The renter had engaged solicitors who represented her throughout the proceeding. The matter faced numerous setbacks, including multiple adjournments, delaying a resolution for the rental provider.

Castellan was then engaged in an attempt to finalise the dispute, which was finally resolved today.

Andrew Nguyen, Director of Castellan Consulting, emphasised that success at VCAT is not just about preparation—it requires a strong grasp of property management legislation and an understanding of how it is applied in hearings.

Mr Nguyen said, “We are very happy to have helped One Agency Property Partners obtain a possession order in this case. Cases like these highlight why property managers must not only know the law but also understand how VCAT interprets and applies it.

“The reasonable and proportionate test played a critical role in this matter, and our expertise in navigating these complexities helped secure the right outcome for our client.”

Robert Gallo, Barrister and Co-Founder of Castellan Consulting, noted, “this case had several procedural hurdles and was complicated by a number of collateral issues that made the process longer than expected. Robust submissions and case management can assist litigants in resolving proceedings earlier. That’s why it’s critical for property managers to have a strong advocacy strategy, the earlier the better.”

Hamish Sethi, Director of One Agency Property Partners (Point Cook), expressed gratitude for Castellan Consulting’s guidance and persistence.

“This was an extremely difficult case with ongoing delays and Castellan’s support was instrumental in achieving the right outcome for our residential rental provider. 

“Their deft application of the law around the reasonable and proportionate test and their ability to navigate the tribunal process made all the difference. We couldn’t have done it without their expertise,” he said.

Exclusive Workshop on the Reasonable and Proportionate Test – 4 April

Recognising the increasing complexity of VCAT cases, Castellan Consulting will be hosting a one-of-a-kind workshop on 4 April, focused exclusively on the reasonable and proportionate test. This session will equip property managers and agency leaders with the skills needed to confidently navigate tribunal disputes and secure favorable outcomes.

For more details on the workshop or to register, visit www.castellanconsulting.com.au.

For any enquiries regarding this press release, please contact andrew@castellanconsulting.com.au

ENDS