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The Decision

You will receive written notice of the SSAT's decision in the mail about 14 days after the hearing. In Centrelink cases, reasons for the decision will also be provided in writing. In child support appeal cases, reasons for the decision will be provided either in writing or verbally. The Tribunal’s decision is always expressed in the terms of the legislation – that is, to affirm, vary or set aside the decision.

If the Tribunal cannot make a decision straight away, it will let you know within a few days of the hearing. Adjournments are only made if absolutely necessary.

Decisions should be read carefully. If English is not your first language, ask someone to explain it to you. You can also call the SSAT for help in understanding the decision.

In reaching a decision, the Tribunal takes into account:

§ The evidence of the applicant, any other parties and Centrelink or CSA;
§ The provisions of the relevant legislation;
§ Relevant decisions of the SSAT, AAT and the Courts;
§ Centrelink, CSA or department policy relating to the issue under review; and
§ The individual circumstances of each case.

The members constituting the Tribunal usually reach a unanimous decision. In many cases, the decision is made at the end of the hearing.

The SSAT uses a standard decision format. The front page of the decision contains the name of the applicant, the name of any other parties, details of the decision under review, information about the hearing and the decision of the Tribunal.