The AAT commenced operations in 1976 to allow reviews of administrative decisions made by Australian Government ministers, departments, agencies and some other tribunals.
In limited circumstances, the AAT could review decisions made by state government and non-government bodies. The AAT can also review decisions of the Norfolk Island Government.
The AAT can only review a decision if an Act, regulation or other legislative instrument confers power of review by the AAT.
The AAT is not always the first avenue of review and in some cases the AAT can not review a decision unless there has been an internal review of the primary decision.
The AAT will be amalgamated with other federal tribunals with effect from 1 July 2015.
Further information about the AAT is available from their website.