18Certain applications must not be determined

18 Certain applications must not be determined

(1) The Secretary must not determine an application made by a person if: (a) the person has already lodged an effective acceptance; or (b) the person has made an application (the earlier application) that has not been finally determined; or (c) there is an alternative amount for the person. (2) The Secretary must not determine an application made on or after 1 December 2017. (3) An earlier application made by a person has been finally determined if: (a) the person is taken to have declined an offer made in response to the application (see section 41); or (b) the person has been given a refusal and the period for applying for a review of a determination included in the refusal has ended without the person making such an application; or (c) the person has been given a refusal that includes a determination made by an external reviewer. (4) This section has effect despite anything else in this Act.