Appealing an NDIS Housing Decision (Review & the ART)
Appeal an NDIS housing decision: how internal review and the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) work, the timeframes, and the evidence to gather.
Being knocked back on a home and living request — SIL, SDA, or the funding to explore your options — is deflating, but it's rarely the end of the road. The NDIS has a clear appeal process, and a 'no' the first time doesn't mean 'no' forever. This guide explains how to appeal an NDIS housing decision, step by step, from internal review through to the Administrative Review Tribunal.
First, understand why you were knocked back
Step one: request an internal review
Building a stronger case for review
Step two: the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)
Timeframes you need to know
Support available for appeals
Keeping perspective through the process
Frequently asked questions
How do I appeal an NDIS housing decision?
Start by requesting an internal review from the NDIA, generally within 3 months of the decision, adding evidence that addresses why you were declined. If that's unsuccessful, you can take it to the independent Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), usually within 28 days of the internal review…
What is the ART and how is it different from the AAT?
The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) is the independent body that reviews NDIS decisions, separate from the NDIA. It replaced the former Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) on 14 October 2024. You generally must complete an internal review before taking a decision to the ART.
What are the timeframes for appealing?
Request an internal review within 3 months of the original decision; the NDIA aims to complete it in around 60 days. To go to the ART, apply within 28 days of receiving the internal review outcome, though the Tribunal can sometimes allow more time.
Can I get help to appeal an NDIS decision?
Yes. The NDIS Appeals program funds independent advocates to support you through the ART process, and disability advocacy organisations can help at the internal review stage. Your support coordinator can also help gather evidence and coordinate the reports you need.
Related guides
- Home and Living Exploration: Exploring Your Options First
- How NDIS Home and Living Funding Works (Core, Capital, SDA)
- How to Write Your NDIS Home and Living Plan
- NDIS Housing Glossary: SDA, SIL, ILO, MTA and More
- NDIS Settlement Offers for Housing Explained
- Reasonable and Necessary: How the NDIS Decides Your Housing