After the Hearing
On this page:
Implementation of the Decision
The Decision
The SSAT makes decisions quickly. Usually, you will receive a written decision by post within two weeks of the hearing.
The SSAT's decision is always expressed in the terms of the legislation - that is, to affirm (ie. the decision is confirmed), vary or set aside the decision (ie. the decision is changed).
Decisions should be read carefully. If English is not your first language, ask someone to explain it to you. The SSAT Case Manager cannot do this for you.
In reaching a decision, the SSAT takes into account:
- The evidence of the applicant, any other parties and Centrelink;
- The provisions of the relevant legislation;
- Relevant previous decisions of the SSAT, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and/or the Courts;
- Centrelink or department policy relating to the issue under review; and
- The individual circumstances of each case.
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 itself.
Changing a Decision
The decision and the reasons for the decision cannot be altered once the decision has been published, other than in very limited circumstances. (eg. to correct an obvious typing mistake). You may not agree with a decision or the reasons for the decision, but this does not amount to an error that can be changed.
See Further Appeal Rights for more information.
Adjournments
If the SSAT 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, for example to research the law or obtain further relevant information. The SSAT will notify you in writing if your matter is adjourned. Please note that the date of the adjournment is not the date you will receive the decision. The Case Manager can explain the adjournment process to you.
Additional information
If you want to send in further information which you think is relevant to the SSAT you should do this in writing as soon as possible after the hearing. The Presiding Member will decide whether or not this additional information is relevant and if it should be considered. You are not able to speak to members other than at a hearing. You should telephone your Case Manager to let the SSAT know that further material is coming because decisions can be made quickly - sometimes the same day or within a day or two of the hearing. Once the decision is sent out the SSAT cannot take your additional information into account and cannot change the decision.
Implementation of the Decision
Once the SSAT has made a decision it is sent to Centrelink to implement the decision. The SSAT does not have any further role in your dealings with Centrelink. The SSAT has no role in implementation (making any changes to your Centrelink data) as a result of the SSAT decision. You will need to contact Centrelink as the implementation can only be done by Centrelink.