COVID-19 special measures
Practice directions
The President has issued five special measures practice directions that set out how the AAT will operate while COVID-19 impacts our services. These are in effect from 29 April 2020 for the following divisions:
Guides
The AAT is an essential government service. We provide independent merits review of a wide range of administrative decisions made by the Australian Government.
We are implementing COVID-safe protective measures at our registries, but we remain available to deliver services.
If you attend an AAT registry, you will be required to follow public health requirements in your state or territory, which may involve wearing a face mask or checking in using a QR code system. You will also be asked to follow AAT COVID-safe procedures such as maintaining social distance.
While our registries remain open, you may prefer to contact us online or by telephone instead. You can do most of what you need to do with the AAT from your home, office or other location with internet access:
Visit australia.gov.au for essential COVID-19 information, including government measures and links to State and Territory health advice.
Common questions about temporary changes to our services
Can I go to my local registry to speak with someone about my case?
Our registries are open during our regular business hours (from 8:30am to 5:00pm weekdays, excluding public holidays).
We ask that you consider whether you need to visit us in person or whether you can contact us another way instead.
If it is necessary to visit us in person, you should call ahead on 1800 228 333 to plan your visit.
Should I visit the AAT to submit documents for an existing case?
You can submit a document online for any case that has already been lodged with the AAT.
If you are unable to submit your documents to us online, by email or by post, you may visit one of our registries during business hours.
You should call ahead on 1800 228 333 to plan your visit.
How will my hearing or conference go ahead if I can't visit in person?
Most of our hearings and conferences are still being conducted remotely by video conference or telephone. In limited circumstances, we are arranging in person hearings where they are required.
If you are required to attend a hearing or conference in person, and are unable to do so, call us on 1800 228 333.
How do I lodge my application?
We prefer online lodgement for new applications. This helps to make sure you meet any time requirements, especially as there may be postal delays during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The way you are able to lodge will differ depending on the type of government decision you want us to review. Find out how your case should be lodged on our Apply for a review page.
Are video and phone hearings open to the public?
Many AAT hearings are open to the public, even if they are held by video conference or phone.
If you want to observe a hearing but are not one of the parties, you will need to let us know. Read about changes to the way members of the public attend AAT hearings, including how to request to attend a video or phone hearing.
How do I find out when your offices are open again?
Please continue to monitor this website for further news and updates.