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.

4.5.3.40 Extension of time for application

Extension of time for application

An extension until 29 January 2028 may be allowed where there are special circumstances for why a person did not make an application during the application period. This requires a discretionary decision to be made based on the facts of the individual case.

Reasons may include (but are not limited to):

  • the person requiring additional time to seek legal advice about the notice of offer before making an informed decision
  • the person having a serious medical condition or caring for another person during the application period, which is why they missed the deadline for applying
  • the person being unable to apply during the application period because they were experiencing family and domestic violence.

The Secretary must give the person written notice of the Secretary’s decision to grant or not grant the extension and the reasons for the decision. The notice must inform the person that they may, within 28 days from the date of the notice, apply for a review of the decision made in relation to their extension application.

A person may make more than one extension application and make an application for an extension even if the time has expired.

Further, the Secretary may allow a person to apply for an internal review after the end of a period for applying if the Secretary considers that special circumstances exist that make it appropriate to do so.

Act reference: Income Apportionment Resolution Scheme Determination 2025 section 10 Applications, section 16 Extensions

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