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When we receive your notice of appeal, we’ll check it to make sure it includes the required information then send a copy of it to the Ministry of Social Development.
The Ministry of Social Development will prepare a report about your matter. They’ll send you a copy of their report before the hearing begins. You can respond to their report.
We will notify the parties of the hearing time and place at least 10 working days before the day of hearing
The hearing
Usually, the appellant and Ministry of Social Development, or their Agent, will be required to attend the hearing.
The hearing may be On the Papers (OTP) if the Authority considers it relevant.
If you do have to attend a formal hearing, we’ll tell you the date and time.
The Ministry of Social Development will pay travelling and accommodation expenses if you need to attend a hearing. When you receive your notice of hearing contact your local Ministry of Social Development office to discuss.
The hearing isn’t open to the public.
The decision
The Authority will send you and the other party a written copy of its decision.
Appealing the Authority’s decision
You can appeal the Authority’s decision to the High Court but only on a question of law - that is, if you think the Authority got the law wrong when it made its decision. You should seek legal advice before appealing to the High Court.