Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 6) 2025

Overview

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 6) 2025I was enacted in 2025 by Dr. Andrew Leigh, the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, pursuant to subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This notifiable instrument was introduced to address the need for expert input in the formulation of statistical policies and practices within the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The policy objective of this appointment is to enhance the quality and integrity of statistical data produced by the ABS through the contribution of a distinguished individual with relevant expertise. Sallie Pearson, the appointed member, will serve on the Australian Statistics Advisory Council on a part-time basis for a term of three years, starting the day after the instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation.

Scope and Application

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 6) 2025I applies to the appointment of Sallie Pearson as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, an entity established under the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This appointment is made by Andrew Leigh, the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, and it is effective for a period of three years from the date of registration on the Federal Register of Legislation. The appointment is a Commonwealth matter and falls under the jurisdiction of the Australian government. The instrument does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds that apply to this particular appointment. The scope of the Act is limited to this specific appointment and does not extend to other members or appointments of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council unless otherwise provided by subordinate instruments or additional legislative action.

Key Provisions

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Member) Appointment (No. 6) 2025I, issued under the authority of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975, appoints Sallie Pearson as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a term of three years. This appointment is effective from the day after the instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation. This statutory instrument (paragraph 1) details the formal process of appointing a council member, ensuring the council's composition meets the requirements stipulated by the Act. The Act imposes specific obligations on the appointed member, Sallie Pearson, who is now a part of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. As a member, she is expected to contribute to the council's advisory role, providing expert advice and recommendations on statistical matters to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This includes participating in council meetings, contributing to the development of policies, and offering insights into statistical methodologies and practices (section 10). Her role requires a commitment to the council's objectives, which include enhancing the quality and relevance of statistical information available to the public and government. There are no explicit offences or penalties outlined in the instrument itself for non-compliance with the appointment provisions. However, the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975, under which this appointment is made, may contain provisions for the removal of a council member for serious misconduct or failure to fulfil their duties (section 19(4)). Such actions could be taken by the relevant Minister, following a review process. The Act may also outline the process for compensation or other civil remedies in the event of wrongful termination or other breaches of the appointment terms. While the specific penalties are not detailed in this instrument, they would be governed by the overarching legislative framework of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975.