Model no more: Querulent behaviour, vexatious litigants and the Vexatious Proceedings Act 2005 (QLD)

This article examines the history and development of vexatious proceedings legislation in Queensland. It undertakes a case study of declared vexatious litigants and analyses the effectiveness of a legislative response. In light of recent national and international reforms, this article argues that the current legislative approach to dealing with vexatious proceedings in Queensland is no longer model and requires reformulation. It asserts that a system of graduated litigation limitation orders would provide for a more nuanced response to the issue of vexatious and querulous behaviour. The article concludes by emphasising the value of a multidimensional approach which includes practical, early intervention strategies in addition to legislation.