Ministerial intervention
Understand your options after a tribunal decision
Ministerial intervention is a discretionary process, separate from a visa application or tribunal review. Under sections 351 and 501J, the Minister may replace an eligible tribunal decision with a more favourable decision where the Minister considers it in the public interest. The Minister does not have to consider a request or decide it within a set time.
Check whether the process applies
A refusal or cancellation alone does not establish access to these powers. A qualifying tribunal decision and the current Ministerial Instructions must be checked. Some earlier AAT decisions remain relevant; current tribunal reviews are handled by the Administrative Review Tribunal.
Prepare a request
Requests must identify the people included, the relevant power, the tribunal decision and the current referral criteria relied on, with supporting evidence. Use the submission method and instructions published by Home Affairs.
Protect your visa status and deadlines
Making a request does not itself grant a visa or extend your lawful stay. Check your visa status and any review deadline separately. No referral or favourable outcome can be guaranteed.
Discuss your decision documents
A2MS can review your decision documents and explain whether a request may be relevant. Have your decision letter, tribunal outcome and current visa details ready for your consultation. Please do not send sensitive documents through the general enquiry form.
Schedule Meeting
Let’s Discuss the Details.
Schedule a consultation with A2MS to discuss your circumstances and whether Ministerial Intervention may be relevant to your matter.
