A major shift in Australia’s Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) process took effect on 18 May 2026, changing how certain temporary visa refusal reviews are handled. Under the new rules, the ART can decide some cases using only written submissions and documents—without holding any hearing.

This “on the papers” review process marks a significant departure from previous practices, placing greater weight on written evidence, procedural compliance, and response deadlines. For temporary visa holders, international students, skilled workers, and visitors who have already faced a visa refusal, understanding these changes is now essential.

What Is an ART ‘On the Papers’ Review?

An “on the papers” review means the ART may assess and decide a case using written documents alone. Applicants will not automatically receive an oral hearing, phone hearing, video conference, or in-person appearance before the Tribunal.

Instead, the ART will consider:
– Written submissions from the applicant
– Supporting evidence and documents
– The original visa refusal decision
– Migration records
– Any additional documents requested by the Tribunal

The changes are linked to amendments supporting the ART review system under the *Migration Regulations 1994*, introduced through the *Administrative Review Tribunal Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Rules 2026*.

Which Visa Applicants Could Be Affected?

The new process applies to certain temporary visa review decisions prescribed under the regulations. Affected applicants may include:
– International students
– Visitor visa applicants
– Temporary skilled workers
– Graduate visa applicants
– Bridging visa applicants
– Other temporary visa holders seeking ART review after a refusal or cancellation

The ART has not stated that every migration review will proceed without a hearing. However, the framework now allows more temporary visa matters to be handled administratively through written material.

Have ART Hearings Been Removed?

No, hearings have not been completely removed. However, some temporary visa review applications may now be decided without an oral hearing if the ART considers that written submissions and evidence are sufficient to determine the case. Other cases may still involve hearings, further information requests, or direct communication with the Tribunal. The exact process depends on the circumstances.

Why Did Australia Introduce This Change?

The Australian Government introduced the change to improve the efficiency of migration review processing. The ART system has experienced significant backlogs in recent years. The new process is intended to:
– Streamline review procedures
– Reduce delays
– Improve administrative efficiency
– Allow simpler matters to progress faster

Expanded Powers for ART Registrars and Staff

The amendments allow the President of the ART to authorise registrars and staff members to perform certain administrative functions in “on the papers” review cases. These powers may include:
– Issuing invitations for applicants to provide written submissions or evidence
– Requesting additional documents
– Managing procedural matters
– Dismissing applications where applicants fail to respond within required timeframes

Importantly, ART members still retain responsibility for making review decisions—the changes mainly allow administrative staff to assist in progressing matters more efficiently.

The Role of Section 367F of the Migration Act

Section 367F of the Migration Act allows the ART to invite applicants to provide additional information, evidence, or written submissions during a review process. Under the new amendments, ART staff and registrars may issue these invitations as part of the “on the papers” system.

If an applicant fails to respond to a section 367F invitation within the required timeframe, the review application may potentially be dismissed. Safeguards may allow reinstatement in some circumstances, but applicants should pay close attention to ART correspondence, response deadlines, document requests, and submission requirements.

What These Changes Mean for Temporary Visa Applicants

For many applicants, the practical impact is significant. Under a paper-based review process, the strength of written submissions and supporting evidence becomes even more important than before. Applicants may have fewer opportunities to:
– Explain issues verbally
– Clarify misunderstandings during a hearing
– Respond spontaneously to Tribunal concerns

This means poorly prepared applications could face greater risk if key issues are not clearly addressed in writing. Applicants should now pay closer attention to evidence quality, written explanations, consistency of documents, response deadlines, and legal and factual accuracy. Strategic preparation may become more important than simply lodging a review application quickly.

Is It Now Harder to Win an ART Review?

Not necessarily harder overall, but the review process has become more document-focused. Strong cases supported by credible evidence, clear written submissions, organised documentation, and accurate legal arguments may still perform well. However, applicants who rely heavily on oral explanations or informal clarification opportunities may find the process more challenging.

How Applicants Can Prepare More Effectively

Under the new ART process, applicants may benefit from:
– Preparing detailed written submissions
– Organising supporting evidence clearly
– Responding quickly to ART requests
– Ensuring documents directly address the reasons for refusal
– Obtaining migration advice early where appropriate

Avoid ignoring ART correspondence—failure to respond to requests may affect the progress of the review application or lead to dismissal.

Professional Assistance for Your ART Visa Appeal

Given the increased emphasis on written submissions under the new “on the papers” review process, having a professionally crafted visa appeal statement can make a critical difference. GTE EXPERTS offers a flat rate of $1,700 AUD for a comprehensive visa appeal statement tailored to ART requirements. For migration agents and referral partners, GTE EXPERTS provides $200 AUD commission per successful referral. Additionally, for selected cases, the company offers a 100% refund if your ART visa appeal is not successful—giving you peace of mind as you navigate this complex new system.

Final Thoughts

Australia’s new ART “on the papers” review process represents a significant procedural change for temporary visa review applications. While hearings have not disappeared entirely, some applicants may now have fewer opportunities to explain their case verbally before a decision is made. For temporary visa holders facing a refusal or cancellation, understanding how the ART process works—and preparing written submissions with care—may become increasingly important in 2026 and beyond.