VIC Mother-in-law Refusing to Give My Personal Property Back

[Sherree]

My partner and I moved interstate and my mother in law offered to keep our belongings in her shed on her property. Whilst living interstate, my partner and her had a falling out.
Now living back in Vic, she refuses to give our stuff back and I'm not sure what I can do about it.
The police told me I will need to speak to VCAT as this is a civil matter. Is this correct or were they just not wanting to get involved? I have contacted VCAT, but they said I should get a lawyer. To be honest, I would much prefer to keep it out of the court room, but I don't know what steps I should take next.

 

[Sarah J]

Hi Sherree,

The police are correct, this is a civil matter. You can bring an action to recover your property with VCAT and ask VCAT to issue a recovery order. VCAT is a tribunal and you do not need a lawyer to represent you before them.