The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

7.2.5 Notification of decisions & reasons for AAT first reviews

AAT affirms decision

If, on AAT first review, the AAT makes a decision to affirm the AAT reviewable claimant decision (1.1.A.02) or the AAT reviewable employer decision (1.1.A.03) under review, the AAT must give, within 14 days, a written notice which sets out the decision of the AAT to all parties to the review. Also within 14 days after making the decision, the AAT must either:

  • give reasons for the decision orally to each party to the review, and explain that the party may request a written statement of those reasons, or
  • give to each party a written statement of the reasons for the decision that sets out its findings on material questions of fact and a reference to the evidence or other material on which those findings were based.

A party to whom oral reasons are given may request a written statement of the reasons for the decision within 14 days after the oral reasons are given.

The AAT must comply with any request for a written statement of reasons within 14 days after the AAT receives the request.

AAT varies decision or sets aside decision

If, on AAT first review, the AAT varies or sets aside an AAT reviewable claimant decision or an AAT reviewable employer decision, the AAT must, give the parties to the review a written notice that sets out the decision and a written statement of the reasons for the decision within 14 days of making its decision. The written statement of reasons must include findings on material questions of fact and a reference to the evidence or other material on which those findings were based.

Act reference: PPLAct section 235 Notification of decisions and reasons for AAT first review

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