How NDIS Reviews and Appeals Work
NDIS appeals explained: an internal review first, then the Administrative Review Tribunal, plus your rights, timeframes and free help.
Being told no by the NDIS can feel final, but it rarely is. If a decision doesn't sit right, you have a clear, established right to have it looked at again. This pillar guide walks you through the two stages — an internal review first, then the Administrative Review Tribunal — the rough timeframes involved, and the free help available at every step. Appealing is normal, not a fight.
The two stages, in plain terms
Stage one: the internal review
Stage two: the Administrative Review Tribunal
Timeframes — act promptly
Free help is available
Where to go next
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an internal review and the Tribunal?
An internal review is when you ask the NDIA to reconsider its own decision, with a different delegate taking a fresh look. The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) is an independent body outside the NDIA that reviews the decision if you're still unhappy after the internal review. You generally do…
Do I have to pay to appeal an NDIS decision?
No. Requesting an internal review is free, and the Tribunal is designed to be low-cost and accessible. Disability advocates and, in many cases, legal aid are free too. You should never feel that cost stands between you and challenging a decision you believe is wrong.
What replaced the AAT for NDIS appeals?
The Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) replaced the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) in late 2024. It does the same job — providing an independent review of certain government decisions, including NDIS ones — outside the NDIA. You may still see the older name in some places.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal?
No. Both stages are designed to be used without legal training. Many people appeal with the help of a free disability advocate rather than a lawyer. For the Tribunal stage, legal aid and community legal centres can also provide free legal help if you want it. See our guide Getting help with an…
Will appealing hurt my relationship with the NDIS?
No. Appealing is a normal, established right, not a fight. Exercising it won't count against you. The process exists precisely so that decisions can be checked and corrected, and many participants use it. You're entitled to ask for a decision to be looked at again.
Where do I start if I disagree with a decision?
Start by checking the decision is reviewable and noting the date you received it, then request an internal review within the timeframe. Getting a free disability advocate involved early makes everything easier. Our guides Which NDIS decisions you can appeal and Requesting an internal review show you…