Plain-English Glossary Term What it means Character test The test set out in s 501(6) of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth) that a non-citizen must pass to be granted, or keep, a visa. Substantial criminal record Defined in s 501(7) — broadly, a sentence of imprisonment of 12 months or more, or two or more…
If a government department, agency or minister has made a decision that affects you, there are two very different ways to challenge it. Merits review asks a tribunal to look at your case afresh and decide what the correct or preferable decision is; at the Commonwealth level this is done by the Administrative Review Tribunal…
Australia has a federal system of government. This means power is divided between the Federal Government (Commonwealth) and the State Governments. Generally: If you live in Hornsby, Waitara, Wahroonga, Thornleigh, Normanhurst, Pennant Hills, Asquith or surrounding NSW suburbs, understanding which level of government is responsible for a particular issue can help you know where to…
Question Short answer Is the Census compulsory? Yes. Completing the Census is required under the Census and Statistics Act 1905 (Cth). Everyone in Australia on Census night must be included on a Census form. When is Census night? Tuesday 11 August 2026. Your answers describe where you were and your circumstances on that night. Is…
