Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Chairperson) (No. 1) Appointment 2021

Overview

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Chairperson) (No. 1) Appointment 2021I is a notifiable instrument issued under subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This instrument was enacted to address the need for the appointment of a Chairperson for the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, a role critical to ensuring the integrity and independence of statistical activities conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. By appointing Ian Harper AO as the Chairperson on a part-time basis for the period spanning from 28 February 2022 to 27 February 2027, the instrument ensures that the Council, which advises on statistical policy and practices, is led by a suitably qualified individual. The enacting body is Michael Sukkar, the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Housing, and Ministers for Homelessness, Social and Community Housing, with the policy objective of maintaining high standards in Australia's statistical outputs.

Scope and Application

The F2021N00292 (Notifiable instrument) specifies the appointment of Ian Harper AO as the Chairperson of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council under the authority granted by subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This appointment is made by Michael Sukkar, who holds the positions of Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Housing, and Minister for Homelessness, Social and Community Housing. Ian Harper AO will serve in this role on a part-time basis, with the term extending from 28 February 2022 to 27 February 2027. This legislation ensures the proper functioning and oversight of the Australian Bureau of Statistics by appointing a qualified individual to lead the Advisory Council, thereby contributing to the integrity and effectiveness of statistical data collection and analysis in Australia.

Key Provisions

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Chairperson) (No. 1) Appointment 2021I appoints Ian Harper AO as the Chairperson of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, effective from 28 February 2022 until 27 February 2027. This appointment is made under the authority granted by subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This legislation facilitates the formal nomination of an individual to a significant advisory role within the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The role of the Chairperson is critical in guiding the ABS on statistical matters and ensuring the integrity and independence of statistical services provided to the government and the public. The Act imposes several obligations on Ian Harper AO in his capacity as Chairperson of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. These include providing expert advice to the Australian Bureau of Statistics on matters related to the development and implementation of statistical standards, methodologies, and practices. Furthermore, the Chairperson is expected to ensure that the Council operates in a manner that is independent of political influence, thereby maintaining the integrity and credibility of the statistical services provided by the ABS. Additionally, the Chairperson must convene regular meetings of the Council, ensuring that all members contribute to the discussions and decisions made by the body. Failure to comply with the obligations set forth in the Act may result in various consequences. While the specific offences and penalties are not detailed in the text, breaches of the statutory duties could potentially lead to legal actions under the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. Such actions might include disciplinary measures, removal from office, or even legal proceedings if the breach is found to be significant. The exact nature and severity of the penalties would depend on the specifics of the breach and the judicial interpretation of the relevant provisions within the Act.