RQBM and Child Support Registrar (Child support second review)

This matter concerned an application by RQBM for an extension of time to lodge an application for review of a decision made by the Social Security and Child Support Division (SSCSD). The Child Support Registrar was the respondent. The application was heard by Member D Murphy of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The primary legal issue before the Tribunal was whether it was reasonable in all the circumstances to grant RQBM an extension of time to seek a review of the SSCSD's decision. This required the Tribunal to consider various factors relevant to such applications, including the length of the delay, RQBM's awareness of their appeal rights, the prospects of success of the intended review, and whether granting an extension would cause prejudice to the Child Support Registrar or any other party.

The Tribunal was satisfied that granting the extension was reasonable. Pursuant to section 29(7) of the *Administrative Appeals Tribunal Act 1975*, the Tribunal ordered that the time for RQBM to make an application for review of the SSCSD's decision dated 21 June 2024 be extended to 13 August 2024.