Some decisions we make can be reviewed under the Australian Passports Act 2005 (Cth)(Opens in a new tab/window).
This means if you're not happy with a reviewable decision we've made, you can ask us to review it.
Decisions we can review
Decisions you can ask us to review include:
- issuing an Australian travel document – except for a decision to issue an Australian travel document to a child or a decision to issue a travel-related document under paragraph 9(1A)(b) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 (Cth)(Opens in a new tab/window)
- refusing to issue an Australian travel document – except in certain circumstances related to children under subsection 11(3) or Australian law enforcement matters under subsection 12(2) of the Australian Passports Act 2005 (Cth)(Opens in a new tab/window)
- refusing to process an application for an Australian travel document if we suspect false or misleading statements or information have been provided with the application, including by omission
- demanding the surrender of an Australian travel document because it's been cancelled or is invalid (except when suspended or cancelled as a result of a competent authority request)
- refusing a name or signature as unacceptable, inappropriate or offensive
- not waiving or refunding an application fee
- not refunding faster processing fees or the overseas surcharge.
If you request a decision review, we’ll appoint someone who was not part of the original decision-making process. This decision-maker will either:
- affirm or vary the decision under review
- set the decision under review aside and make a substitute decision.
We’ll let you know the outcome once the review is finalised.
Requesting an internal review of a decision
There’s no fee for an internal review of a decision.
To apply, you must write to us within 28 days of receiving the initial decision. You must also explain why you’re seeking an internal review.
You can email your request for an internal review to APO.Reviews@dfat.gov.au.
You can also send your request to:
APO Reviews
Australian Passport Office
GPO Box 9807
Canberra ACT 2601
If you disagree with the outcome of an internal decision review, you can generally apply to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)(Opens in a new tab/window) for an external review. This will depend on the internal review decision.