Challenge a government decision that affects you.
Government departments, councils and agencies don't always get it right. We help you understand the decision, your review rights and the best way to challenge it.
Talk to us about your matter
Meet online, or in person at our office (by prior appointment). We usually reply within one business day.
Administrative Law & VCAT at Asher Freeman Lawyers
Asher Freeman Lawyers is a law firm in Chadstone, Victoria that helps individuals and businesses challenge government and council decisions, including internal reviews, VCAT applications, Administrative Review Tribunal appeals and freedom of information requests. We act for clients across Victoria, online or in person at our Chadstone office (by prior appointment), and quote fixed fees wherever possible.
Our administrative law & vcat services
Internal reviews
Asking the decision-maker to reconsider their decision.
VCAT review
Applications to VCAT to review Victorian government and council decisions.
Administrative Review Tribunal
Reviews of federal decisions, including NDIS and migration matters.
Planning and council decisions
Permit refusals, conditions and enforcement action.
Licensing decisions
Refusals, suspensions and cancellations of licences and registrations.
Freedom of information
Requesting documents from government agencies.
Complaints
Complaints to ombudsmen and oversight bodies.
Judicial review
Challenging decisions that were made unlawfully.
How reviewing a government decision works
Check your review rights
Many decisions come with a right to an internal review or a review by a tribunal. The decision letter usually explains your options.
Deadlines are strict
Time limits to apply for a review can be short, sometimes just a few weeks. Missing them can mean losing your right to challenge the decision.
Tribunals look at the merits
VCAT and the ART can look at the decision afresh and make a new decision. Strong evidence and clear submissions are key.
Three simple steps
Meet with us online, or in person at our Chadstone office (by prior appointment).
Send us the decision
Include the decision letter and any reasons you've been given.
We assess your options
We explain your review rights, deadlines and prospects.
We act for you
We prepare your application and represent you through the review.
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Administrative Law & VCAT: frequently asked questions
What is administrative law?
Administrative law covers the decisions of government departments, councils and agencies, and your right to have those decisions reviewed.
Can VCAT review a council decision?
VCAT can review many council and Victorian government decisions, including planning permit decisions. Whether it can review your decision depends on the law the decision was made under.
What is the Administrative Review Tribunal?
The ART replaced the AAT in October 2024. It reviews many federal government decisions, including NDIS, migration and Centrelink decisions.
How long do I have to challenge a decision?
It varies, and can be as short as a few weeks. Check your decision letter and get advice as soon as possible.
Last reviewed October 2026. This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Contact us for advice about your situation.
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