Brian Cox's lengthy ban begins immediately after the Wodonga trainer failed in his application for a stay of proceedings pending an appeal against steroid charges.

Cox was banned for a total of 3-1/2 years on by the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board last week.

He has applied to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for the review of parts of the RAD Board's decisions which resulted in guilty findings for eight breaches of the rules relating to the possession and administration of steroids.

On Tuesday VCAT denied Cox's application for a stay of proceedings.

Cox was disqualified for the administration of the anabolic steroid, Nitrotain, to two horses in his stable in August last year, possession of the substance, and for manhandling stewards during a race day stable inspection in March.

A directions hearing for Cox's VCAT appeal will be held on January 16.