About the ARC

The Administrative Review Council (ARC) is an independent advisory body established under the Administrative Review Tribunal Act 2024 (ART Act) to strengthen the integrity and operation of the Commonwealth administrative law system.

The ARC was first established under the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Act 1975 as a key element of the administrative review system. In 2015, as part of the Smaller Government reforms, the ARC was discontinued and its functions consolidated into the Attorney-General's Department.

The ARC was re-established in 2024 under the ART Act, with functions to:

  • monitor the Commonwealth administrative law system
  • inquire into systemic issues in administrative law
  • develop and publish guidance
  • support education and training for Commonwealth officials.

The ARC is not a merits review body. It does not examine individual claims or hear appeals.

Members

The ARC consists of:

  • ex-officio members
  • members appointed by the Governor‑General.

ARC members bring diverse skills, experience and knowledge.
All appointments to the ARC are on a part-time basis for up to 5 years. 

Current ARC members are:

  • Professor Margaret Allars SC (Chair)
  • The Honourable Justice Emilios Kyrou AO, President of the Administrative Review Tribunal
  • Mr Iain Anderson, Commonwealth Ombudsman
  • Ms Elizabeth Tydd, Australian Information Commissioner
  • Professor Matthew Groves
  • Dr Graeme Innes AM
  • Mrs Kerry Staines.

The ARC may invite representatives from relevant entities to observe its meetings and help with deliberations on particular topics.

Policies and procedures