Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2021

Overview

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2021I was enacted in 2021 to address the need for expert advisory input into the operations and functions of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The instrument was issued under subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 by Michael Sukkar, who serves as Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Housing, and Minister for Homelessness, Social and Community Housing. The policy objective of this appointment is to ensure that the ABS benefits from informed and skilled advice, thereby enhancing its capacity to deliver high-quality statistical services to the Australian government and the public. By appointing Alistair Jones as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a period of three years, the legislation aims to bolster the expertise and guidance available to the ABS, contributing to the integrity and effectiveness of Australia's statistical framework.

Scope and Application

The F2021N00205 (Notifiable instrument) is an appointment instrument under the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975, specifically concerning the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. This legislation applies to the appointment of Alistair Jones as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a period of three years. The appointment is made by Michael Sukkar, who holds the positions of Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Housing, and Minister for Homelessness, Social and Community Housing. This appointment is significant as it involves the selection of an individual to contribute to the council that advises on the operations and functions of the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The instrument is a Commonwealth legislative instrument, meaning its jurisdictional reach is national, and it applies to the entire Australian territory. There are no stated exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds in this particular instrument, and its application is direct without the need for subordinate instruments to extend or restrict its application.

Key Provisions

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2021I, dated 18 August 2021, outlines the appointment of Alistair Jones as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a term of three years. This appointment is made under subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 by Michael Sukkar, who holds the positions of Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness, and Minister for Social and Community Housing. The commencement of this appointment is contingent upon the registration of the instrument on the Federal Register of Legislation. Under this legislation, Alistair Jones is appointed to provide expertise and advice to the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. His role, as outlined in the Act, will involve contributing to the development and oversight of statistical standards and practices in Australia. This appointment seeks to ensure that the Council has access to relevant and skilled individuals who can support its mission to enhance the quality and integrity of Australian statistics. The Act imposes several obligations on Alistair Jones as a member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. Primarily, he is expected to actively participate in the Council's meetings and activities, offering insights and recommendations based on his expertise. Additionally, he must adhere to the principles of confidentiality and impartiality, ensuring that his contributions are unbiased and that sensitive information is appropriately safeguarded. Furthermore, he is required to collaborate with other Council members to achieve the objectives set forth by the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. Failure to comply with the obligations stipulated in the Act may result in various consequences. While the specific legal repercussions are not detailed in the instrument itself, breaches of confidentiality or impartiality could potentially lead to disciplinary actions or even termination of the appointment. Additionally, if any legal proceedings arise from actions taken as a Council member, Alistair Jones could be personally liable for any resulting damages or penalties. The maximum penalties, if applicable, would be determined by the relevant courts in accordance with Australian law.