A1.1 Introduction

1. Good decision-making (as well as looking at the merits) requires attention to process, to how the decision is made. A fair process is more likely to ensure a fair outcome. Decisions that are not made in the proper manner may be reviewed by the Courts or become a subject of complaint to the Ombudsman (see A9).
2. Making a decision in the proper manner involves acting on the principles of fairness and natural justice, which means:
   1. giving the applicant a fair hearing, and
   2. avoiding bias.
3. All visa and immigration officers must act on the principles of fairness and natural justice when deciding an application.

Effective 26/07/1999