Group proceedings (class actions) are proceedings brought on behalf of seven or more people, where the claims arise out of the same, similar, or related circumstances and raise substantial common factual and legal questions.
Group proceedings are heard in the Common Law Division and Commercial Court of the Supreme Court. The Victorian group proceedings regime commenced in January 2000 and is governed by Part IVA of the Supreme Court Act 1986. Group proceedings are also referred to as 'class actions' or 'representative proceedings'.
One or more plaintiffs initiate the claim on behalf of a group of people, called ‘group members’. Everyone who meets the definition as pleaded in the claim will be group members unless they elect to opt out of the group proceeding. The Court publishes notices to group members and other relevant information specific to group proceedings on the group proceedings webpages.
To view current group proceedings before the Court, see current group proceedings. New group proceedings are displayed here when they are listed for an initial case management conference. You can also view a hearings list. A list of settled group proceedings under Court supervision is available at settlement supervision group proceedings.
The following documents provide guidance to practitioners on the conduct of group proceedings in the Court:
Notices
Practice Notes
Other Information