All Australian Training Pty Ltd and Australian Skills Quality Authority

This matter concerned an application by All Australian Training Pty Ltd for an extension of time to appeal a decision made by the Australian Skills Quality Authority. The application was heard by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The Tribunal was required to determine whether it was reasonable in all the circumstances to grant the extension of time sought by the applicant. This involved considering the principles established in judicial authority regarding applications for extensions of time under section 29(7) of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Act 1975.

The Tribunal applied the principles outlined in *Hunter Valley Developments Pty Ltd v Cohen*, which require an applicant to provide an acceptable explanation for the delay, demonstrate that it would be fair and equitable to extend time, and consider any prejudice to the respondent or other parties. The Tribunal noted the importance of time limits in public administration, citing the High Court's reasoning in *Brisbane South Regional Health Authority v Taylor* regarding the loss of evidence, the oppression of stale claims, the ability of individuals to arrange their affairs, and the public interest in the swift resolution of disputes. The Tribunal found that the applicant had not made out a sufficiently strong case on the merits of the substantive application, nor had it provided a satisfactory explanation for the significant delay in lodging the appeal.

Consequently, the Tribunal refused the application for an extension of time.