How to Appeal a Centrelink Decision About Your Age Pension

If Centrelink has made a decision about your Age Pension that you believe is wrong — whether they've rejected your claim, reduced your payment, valued your assets incorrectly, or assessed your income differently than you expected — you have the right to challenge that decision. The appeals process has clear steps and timeframes, and many people who appeal do get a better outcome.

Common Reasons Pensioners Appeal

You don't need to have a dramatic grievance to request a review. Some of the most common reasons people appeal a Centrelink pension decision include disagreement with a property valuation (especially for excess land or the 5 acre rule), disputes about relationship status (whether you're assessed as single or a couple), incorrect assessment of income or assets, rejection of a new claim, a debt or overpayment you believe is wrong, or disputes about your homeowner or non-homeowner classification.

Whatever the reason, the process is the same. You start with the least formal step and escalate if needed.

The Three-Stage Appeals Process

1. Stage 1: Internal Review by an Authorised Review Officer (ARO)
   This is a fresh look at the decision by a Centrelink officer who was not involved in the original decision. The ARO can consider new information you provide and can change the decision if they find it was wrong. This is the most important step — many appeals are resolved here without needing to go further.
   
   How to request: Call 132 300, visit a service centre, or write to Centrelink. Simply say you want a "formal review" of the decision.
   Time limit: You should request a review within 13 weeks of being notified of the decision. You can request after 13 weeks, but it may affect how far back any correction is applied.
   Typical timeframe: AROs usually complete reviews within 4-8 weeks, though complex cases may take longer.
2. Stage 2: Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) — First Review
   If you disagree with the ARO's decision, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. The AAT is independent of Centrelink and provides a more formal review. You'll usually attend a hearing (in person, by phone, or by video) where you can present your case and evidence.
   
   How to apply: Lodge an application with the AAT online, by post, or in person. There is a small filing fee (usually around $100, but it may be reduced or waived if you receive a government payment).
   Time limit: Within 13 weeks of receiving the ARO's decision.
   Typical timeframe: Usually 3-6 months from application to hearing.
3. Stage 3: AAT — Second Review (General Division)
   If you still disagree after the first AAT review, you can seek a second review in the AAT's General Division. This is a more formal, legalistic process. Decisions can also be appealed to the Federal Court on a point of law, though this is rare and should involve a lawyer.
   
   Note: Very few pension cases go this far. Most are resolved at Stage 1 or Stage 2.

Preparing a Strong Case

The difference between a successful appeal and an unsuccessful one often comes down to evidence. Here's what to gather before requesting a review:

For Property Valuation Disputes

• A written appraisal from a local real estate agent using the correct two-valuation method
• A formal valuation from a Certified Practising Valuer (for AAT cases)
• Council planning certificates showing zoning, subdivision restrictions, or environmental overlays
• Photographs showing terrain limitations (steep, flood-prone, heavily treed)
• Evidence of lack of services (water, road access, power)

For Income or Asset Disputes

• Bank statements, share certificates, or fund statements showing actual values
• Documents showing the asset is owned by someone else (not you)
• Evidence that income has ceased or changed
• Tax returns or notices of assessment

For Relationship Status Disputes

• Evidence of separate finances (separate bank accounts, separate bills)
• Statutory declarations from you and the other person
• Evidence of separate social lives and sleeping arrangements
• Family law documentation (if separated)

Getting Help With Your Appeal

You don't have to navigate this alone. Several free and low-cost services can help:

• Social workers at Centrelink — Can help you understand the decision and your options
• Legal Aid in your state — Provides free legal advice and representation for social security appeals. Most states have dedicated social security appeal services.
• Welfare Rights centres — Community legal services that specialise in Centrelink matters. Available in most states and territories.
• Financial counsellors — Free, independent services available through the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007
• Your local MP — Members of Parliament can make enquiries on your behalf with Centrelink

Tips for a Smoother Appeals Process

1. Keep copies of everything — Every letter from Centrelink, every document you submit, every phone call reference number
2. Note the date on every Centrelink letter — Timeframes run from the date you're notified, not the date the decision was made
3. Request the decision in writing — If you've only been told verbally, ask for written confirmation including the reasons
4. Don't miss deadlines — The 13-week windows are important; lodge your appeal promptly
5. Continue reporting normally — While your appeal is underway, keep reporting your income and circumstances as usual
6. Ask about back-payment — If the decision is overturned, you may be entitled to back-payment from the date of the original incorrect decision

Last reviewed: February 2026