NCAT is set up for lay people to resolve grievances, without having to pay unaffordable legal fees.
It WAS set up that way, that’s true, and you have to apply for permission to be legally represented, but it is becoming more common as (I’m told) Members find that they are having to instruct unrepresented plaintiffs and defendants on basic strata law, just so they can hear cases on their merits.
Here’s an NCAT fact sheet on representation, either by supporting parties or by lawyers.