Migration Review Tribunal (MRT)

The Migration Review Tribunal (MRT) and Refugee Review Tribunal (RRT) conduct merit reviews of visa and visa-related decisions made by the Australian Department of Immigration & Border Protection (DIBP).

"Merits review" is an administrative reconsideration of a case. A merits review body makes decisions within the same legislative framework as the primary decision maker, and may exercise all the powers and discretions conferred on the primary decision maker.

• MRT: Reviews a wide range of decisions in relation to visas other than protection visas
• RRT: Reviews decisions in relation to protection visas.

The tribunals are usually constituted by a single member. The tribunals have the power to affirm the primary decision made by the Department of Immigration & Border Protection (DIBP), vary the primary decision, set aside the primary decision and substitute a new decision, or remit (return) a matter to the department for reconsideration with specific directions.

In reviewing a decision to refuse or cancel a visa, the tribunals are required to conduct a merits review that is ‘independent, fair, just, economical, informal and quick’. We aim to make the correct decision in individual cases, and to influence decision-making through quality and consistency of our decisions.

Please contact Nevett Ford Lawyers (Melbourne) to speak to one of our 5 dedicated and experienced immigration lawyers if you require advice and assistance with your appeal case at the Migration Review Tribunal - telephone: 03 9614 7111 or by email at: rcurtisgriffiths@nevettford.com.au. 

Legal advice and assistance is highly recommended.