New Civil Procedure Act: Promoting Early Resolution

Victoria has a new Civil Procedure Act ("the Act") which will come into operation on either 1 June 2011 or an earlier date (possibly 1 January 2011) if the Government decides that it should start earlier. The Act is aimed at promoting the just, efficient, timely and cost-effective resolution of disputes and applies to all Victorian courts, but not to VCAT or other Tribunals.

The Act has important practical ramifications for insurers, lawyers and others for civil claims in Victoria both before proceedings are issued and after, as listed in the table below. For example, the Court may scrutinise and criticise parties if they cause delay through the late disclosure of their case and/or provision of documents.