Australia's Upcoming Changes to Application Fees: What You Need to Know??
Starting from July 1, 2024, there will be significant changes to the application fees across various divisions. These changes reflect the annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as mandated by relevant regulations.
General, Freedom of Information, Security, Small Business Taxation, and Taxation and Commercial Divisions
For those applying for a review of decisions in these divisions, the following new fees will be applicable:
- Standard Application Fee: The fee will increase to $1,121.
- Small Business Taxation Decision Review: The fee will be adjusted to $602.
- Other Taxation Decision Reviews: The fee will change to $111.
- Reduced Fee Eligibility: The reduced fee for eligible applicants will remain at $100.
These fees will be applicable if the application fee is paid on or after July 1, 2024, even if the application was lodged prior to this date.
Migration and Refugee Division
Significant changes are also coming to the Migration and Refugee Division fees:
- Review of Migration Decision (Part 5 of the Migration Act 1958): The application fee will increase to $3,496. If a 50% fee reduction is granted, the reduced fee will be $1,748. These new fees will apply to applications lodged on or after July 1, 2024, or those lodged before this date if the fee or 50% of the fee is paid on or after July 1, 2024.
- Review of Protection Visa Decision (Part 7 of the Migration Act 1958): The fee will increase to $2,151. Typically, this fee is payable only if the application is not successful.
Context and Rationale
The fee adjustments are part of the annual review process aligned with the CPI changes as per the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Regulation 2015 for general divisions and the Migration Regulations 1994 for the Migration and Refugee Division. This ensures that the fees keep pace with economic changes and inflation.
Impact on Applicants
These fee changes may impact applicants significantly, especially those in the Migration and Refugee Division, where fees are substantially higher. Applicants are advised to plan accordingly and consider the timing of their applications to avoid unexpected costs. Additionally, it’s crucial for applicants who might be eligible for fee reductions to apply for these reductions to mitigate the financial burden.
By staying informed about these upcoming changes, applicants can better navigate the application process and ensure compliance with the new fee structures.
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