SAT Applications

Support for the legal decisions that matter most

The State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) is an independent body that handles legal matters related to capacity, guardianship, administration, and powers of attorney in Western Australia.

If someone you care about has lost capacity, or if there’s a concern about how their affairs are being managed, SAT can step in to make legally binding decisions. TLS is here to guide you through that process with calm, experienced support.

What does SAT do?

SAT has the power to:

• Appoint Guardians or Administrators for people who can no longer manage their personal, medical or financial decisions
• Review or vary existing guardianship or administration orders
• Declare whether someone has capacity to vote or make legal decisions
• Rule on concerns involving Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA), including misuse or mismanagement
• Provide or withhold consent for certain medical procedures (such as sterilisation) where guardianship is involved

These matters fall under the Guardianship and Administration Act 1990 (WA).

When might you need to apply to SAT?

We assist clients with a range of SAT applications, including:

Activating an EPA

If you’ve been appointed as an Attorney and your loved one has lost capacity, we can help you apply to SAT to confirm that the Enduring Power of Attorney is now in effect.

Applying for Guardianship or Administration

When a person is no longer able to make their own medical, lifestyle, or financial decisions, SAT can appoint a Guardian or Administrator to act on their behalf. We support family members and carers in applying for this legal authority.

Raising Concerns About an Existing EPA

If you believe an Attorney isn’t managing someone’s affairs appropriately — or if circumstances have changed — we can help you:

• Ask SAT to review the Attorney’s actions and require them to produce records, or
• Seek to change or revoke the EPA

If you’re unsure whether a situation needs SAT intervention, we can advise you on your options.

What does SAT cost?

SAT aims to be an accessible, low-cost forum. In most cases:

• There are no application or hearing fees under the Guardianship and Administration Act
• Each party usually bears their own legal costs
• However, SAT may award costs if someone has acted in a way that protected the best interests of the person at the centre of the application

We’ll give you clear advice about any potential costs before you begin.

How TLS can help with SAT applications

Our experienced team can:

• Explain the process clearly and help you understand your rights and responsibilities
• Prepare and lodge your SAT application with the correct supporting documents
• Represent you at a SAT hearing if required

Advise Attorneys or Guardians about their legal obligations and what to do if concerns are raised

Need help with a SAT application in WA?

Let’s talk about how we can support you or someone you care about.