Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2025

Overview

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2025 Instrument (F2025N00214) was enacted on 6 March 2025. This legislation was introduced to fill a vacancy on the Australian Statistics Advisory Council by appointing a new member. The enactment of this instrument is pursuant to subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 and follows the authority of Dr Andrew Leigh, who is the Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, and also serves as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer. The policy objective behind this appointment is to ensure the Council's continued ability to provide expert advice on statistical matters, thereby supporting the Australian Bureau of Statistics in maintaining high standards of statistical services. The appointment of Andrew Barker as a part-time member for a period of three years aims to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the Council, enhancing its capacity to advise on critical statistical issues.

Scope and Application

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2025I is a legislative instrument under subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This notifiable instrument appoints Andrew Barker as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, a role he is to fulfil for a three-year term commencing the day following the instrument's registration on the Federal Register of Legislation. This appointment falls under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth, reflecting the legislative authority and oversight of the federal government in relation to the Australian Bureau of Statistics and its advisory council. The appointment is specific to Andrew Barker and pertains to his role on the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, thereby applying directly to him. The instrument does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, and it does not extend or restrict its application through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The primary operative sections of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2025I (the 'Instrument') are those that establish the appointment of Andrew Barker as a member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. Section 1 of the Instrument provides that Andrew Barker is appointed as a member of the Council on a part-time basis, for a period of three years commencing from the day after the Instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation. This appointment is made under the authority conferred by subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on the parties involved. Firstly, Andrew Barker, as a member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, is expected to contribute to the Council's functions, which include providing advice to the Australian Bureau of Statistics on matters relating to the collection, analysis, and dissemination of statistics. This involves participating in meetings, contributing to discussions, and assisting in the formulation of policies and strategies that enhance the quality and reliability of statistical information provided by the Bureau. The role also entails adhering to the terms and conditions specified in the Instrument and the overarching statutory framework of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. There are also specific consequences for non-compliance with the terms of this appointment. Although the Instrument does not explicitly outline penalties for breach, any failure to comply with the statutory obligations under the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 could result in legal repercussions. For instance, under section 23 of the Act, an individual who wilfully neglects or refuses to perform their duties could be subject to penalties as prescribed by law. Although the specific penalties are not detailed in the Instrument, they could include fines or other sanctions as determined by the relevant authorities, reflecting the seriousness of non-compliance with statutory duties. This underscores the importance of adhering to the terms of the appointment and fulfilling the obligations set out in the Act.