ART decisionsHistorical data · checked 5 November 2026
ART processing snapshot: partner reviews at 3 years 1 month; protection at 2 years
The current ART table reports finalised-case statistics for 1 April–30 September 2026, with important limits on using them to predict an individual review.
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Australia Migration NewsPublished 5 Nov 2026 · Development 30 Sept 2026 · Updated 5 Nov 2026
AT A GLANCE
Figures concern reviews finalised during 1 April–30 September 2026.
The partner-review median was 3 years 1 month; the protection-review median was 2 years.
These are not waiting-time promises or statutory filing deadlines.
Selected ART finalised-case processing times, 1 April–30 September 2026
Review category
50% finalised within
95% finalised within
Partner
3 years 1 month
3 years 11 months
Protection
2 years
4 years 9 months
Student refusal
1 year 5 months
2 years 2 months
Nomination/Sponsor approval
1 year 6 months
2 years 4 months
All migration
1 year 5 months
2 years 10 months
Reporting scope: Current page checked 5 November 2026; its first publication date was not established. This brief is a dated data snapshot, not an assertion that ART released the statistics today.
What the figures measure
ART's current published figures measure elapsed time from lodgement for cases finalised in the six months ending 30 September 2026. The table separates migration categories from protection reviews. Character and citizenship processing times are not included, and cases found outside the Tribunal's jurisdiction are excluded.
How to use the snapshot
A median describes completed cases, not the position of a current application in a queue. Even the 95% figure leaves some cases taking longer. Complexity, available members, caseload and case-management strategies affect outcomes. Prepare evidence and meet directions as they arise rather than assuming the published duration provides extra time.