Oliver Cook appeared for the respondent, instructed by Colin Biggers & Paisley Lawyers.
This case concerned costs in a disciplinary matter involving a veterinary surgeon. The Tribunal considered the relevant statutory framework empowering it to make costs orders (ss 100 and 102 of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2009 (Qld), and s 15D of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1936 (Qld)), and the interaction between these provisions. The conduct of the respondent and the constitution of the Veterinary Surgeons Board were also considered, pertaining to whether either warranted a reduction in costs. It was held that a costs order be required in the interests of justice. The Tribunal ordered that the applicant pay the respondent’s costs of and incidental to the proceedings on a standard basis, and if the amount of costs was not agreed within 14 days, that the costs be assessed by way of short form assessment by a costs assessor appointed by the Principal Registrar, and be paid by the respondent accordingly.
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