Look, if you have been dealing with the AAT, forget everything you knew. The Administrative Appeals Tribunal is gone. From 14 October 2024, all migration appeals go to the new Administrative Reviews Tribunal.
That is not a rebrand. It is a complete replacement.
If you have a visa refusal or cancellation you need to challenge, this is the system you are now dealing with. Here is what actually changed.
Why Did the Government Scrap the AAT?
The AAT was broken. I have been practising immigration law for over 15 years, and I watched it get worse. Cases dragged on for two, three, sometimes four years. Decisions were inconsistent. The backlog ballooned to over 50,000 cases.
If you went through the Section 501 character cancellation process under the old system, you know exactly how frustrating it was. Families separated. Lives on hold. No clarity on when a decision would come.
The government decided fixing the AAT was not worth it. They tore it down and built something new.
Whether the ART actually delivers on its promises is another question. But here is what they are claiming.
What Actually Changed
Target Timeframes: 6 to 12 Months
The ART aims to resolve migration cases within 6 to 12 months. Compare that to the AAT, where some cases sat for years before anyone looked at them.
If the ART delivers on this, it is a genuine improvement. That is a big if.
New Application Fee: $3,000
The standard fee to lodge an ART application for migration matters is $3,000. If you qualify for a concession due to financial hardship, the fee drops to $1,000.
This is different from the old AAT fee structure. Budget accordingly.
Online Platform and Virtual Hearings
The ART has a new online system for submitting appeals, tracking progress, and accessing case updates. Virtual hearings are more widely available, which helps if you are overseas or cannot attend in person.
No more wondering where your case is in the queue.
Specialised Tribunal Members
Migration matters will be handled by members with specific expertise in migration law. Not generalists who dabble in migration between other matters.
The goal is more consistent, legally sound decisions. We will see if that holds up in practice.
Better Transparency
The ART will provide more detailed reasons for decisions. Stricter guidelines around timeframes should also improve accountability.
What Happens to Existing AAT Cases?
If you had a case lodged with the AAT before 14 October 2024, it has been transferred to the ART. You should have received notification of any changes. Your case will continue under the ART's new framework.
If you have not heard anything, chase it up. Do not assume everything is fine.
The Key Things to Know
• Application fee is $3,000 (or $1,000 with concession)
• Target timeframe is 6 to 12 months
• Online lodgement and tracking available
• Virtual hearings more accessible
• Existing AAT cases transferred automatically
What Should You Do Now?
If you need to appeal a migration decision, the deadlines for lodging appeals have not changed. Do not delay thinking you have time to figure out the new system.
The rules changed. The process changed. But the clock is still ticking.
If you have received a refusal or cancellation and want to understand your options, book a consultation. Let us assess your case and work out whether an ART appeal is the right path forward.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice on your specific circumstances, book a consultation.
