Clear Advocacy for Complex Government Decisions
When you’ve received a government decision that doesn’t reflect your situation, having the right legal support can change everything. We help individuals and professionals through the merits review process with clarity, care, and confidence.
Our team has extensive experience assisting with immigration refusals, NDIS and Centrelink disputes, and licensing matters across a range of industries. We prepare strong applications, represent clients at the ART, and ensure your case is given the attention and fairness it deserves.
If you’re looking for an experienced, honest, and approachable team to support you through a merits review, Sambi Legal is ready to help.
What Is a Merits Review?
A merits review is a process where an independent body, such as the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), takes a fresh look at a government decision to determine if it was the correct or preferable one based on all the available facts and evidence. Unlike judicial review, which focuses only on legal errors, a merits review reassesses your situation in full: the facts, the circumstances, and how the law was applied.
You’re not just asking whether the original decision-maker followed the law, but whether the decision itself was fair, reasonable, and justified. The review body has the power to affirm, vary, or overturn the decision and substitute its own. This makes merit review an important tool for individuals who believe a government department misunderstood, overlooked, or unfairly assessed their case.
We have in-depth experience guiding clients through the merits review process, particularly in complex areas like immigration, NDIS, Centrelink, and licensing matters. We help prepare strong submissions, gather compelling evidence, and represent you confidently at every stage.
Why Might You Need One?
Government departments don’t always get it right. Important details can be missed. Evidence might not be fully considered. And sometimes, the decision simply doesn’t reflect your real circumstances. That’s where a merits review comes in; it gives you a genuine opportunity to have your case looked at again, fairly and thoroughly.
Ask yourself:
- Were key facts overlooked in your original decision?
- Do you have new evidence that supports your case?
- Were you given a chance to properly explain your situation?
- Are you unsure what options you have left after a negative decision?
Sambi Legal helps clients across Australia approach the merits review process clearly and confidently. We’ll advise you on whether your matter is eligible, how to respond within timeframes, and how to prepare a strong and persuasive case.
Our 3-Step Merits Review Process
Step 1: Book a Free Consultation
Get in touch to arrange a confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your situation, review your documents, and identify whether a merits review is the right path forward.
Step 2: Receive Initial Free Advice
During your first consultation, we’ll provide practical guidance about your eligibility, deadlines, and next steps. Our goal is to give you clarity so you can confidently make informed decisions.
Step 3: Engage Services and Build Your Case
If you choose to move forward, we’ll prepare your review application, gather supporting evidence, and guide you through hearings or written submissions. We’ll be beside you at every stage.
Why Choose Sambi Legal?
A government decision can impact your future, family, or livelihood. That’s why we offer more than just legal advice; we offer clear, strategic guidance backed by compassion, experience, and results.
What’s the difference between a merits review and a judicial review?
Merits reviews are a core part of what we do. We regularly assist clients through ART matters, ensuring every submission is personalised, thorough, and persuasive.
Diverse Representation, Real Understanding
We take pride in representing people from all walks of life, from complex immigration issues to government services and licensing matters. Our team reflects the diverse communities we serve.
Clear, Personable Communication
We take the time to explain the process, outline your options, and keep you informed at every stage. With us, you’ll always feel supported, not left in the dark.
Nationwide Legal Support
From our base in Brisbane, we assist clients across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide, making high-quality legal help available no matter your location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a merits review and a judicial review?
A merits review reassesses the entire case, including facts, evidence, and circumstances, to decide whether the original outcome was correct or preferable. A judicial review only considers whether there was a legal error in the decision-making process. Sambi Legal can help you determine which option best fits your situation.
Who conducts the merits review?
Most merits reviews are conducted by the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), which is an independent body that reviews a range of government decisions, including immigration, NDIS, and licensing matters.
Can I submit new evidence in a merits review?
Yes. One of the key advantages of a merits review is that you can submit new or previously overlooked evidence to strengthen your case. We’ll help you identify what’s relevant and persuasive.
What’s the timeframe for lodging a merits review?
Time limits vary depending on the type of decision and the government body involved. In most cases, you’ll need to act within 7 to 28 days. That’s why it is essential to seek legal advice promptly.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for a merits review?
While it is possible to self-represent, merits reviews involve detailed submissions, legal arguments, and tight deadlines. Having Sambi Legal on your side ensures your case is presented as clearly and effectively as possible.
If you’re dealing with a legal issue and aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help. Contact Sambi Legal today to arrange your free initial consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain your options, and help you decide on the next steps.
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