Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Members) Appointment (No. 2) 2024

Overview

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Members) Appointment (No. 2) 2024 Instrument, dated 1 July 2024, was enacted to address the need for expert advice and representation on the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, thereby ensuring that the Australian Bureau of Statistics continues to meet its obligations under the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. This legislation was introduced by the Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, Dr Andrew Leigh, who appointed Lisa Jackson Pulver and Mick Butler as part-time members of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a term of three years. The policy objective is to enhance the council's capacity to provide independent advice on statistical matters, thus supporting the integrity and effectiveness of Australia's statistical system.

Scope and Application

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Members) Appointment (No. 2) 2024 Instrument is an administrative instrument under subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975, which pertains to the appointment of individuals to the Australian Statistics Advisory Council. Specifically, it appoints Lisa Jackson Pulver and Mick Butler to the council on a part-time basis for a three-year term starting the day after the instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation. The Act applies to these two individuals, specifying their roles as members of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council and delineating the terms and conditions of their appointment. Geographically, this instrument operates within the Commonwealth of Australia, falling under the purview of the federal legislative framework. The instrument does not explicitly state exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds but operates under the authority conferred by the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. Additionally, while the primary legislation may be extended or restricted through subordinate instruments, this particular instrument focuses solely on the appointments as directed.

Key Provisions

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (Australian Statistics Advisory Council Members) Appointment (No. 2) 2024I, executed by Andrew Leigh, Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, appoints Lisa Jackson Pulver and Mick Butler as members of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council (ASAC). These appointments are pursuant to subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 and are made on a part-time basis for a period of three years, starting the day after the instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation. This legislation ensures that the ASAC, which advises on statistical matters, has the necessary expertise and representation to fulfil its advisory role effectively. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on the appointed members of the ASAC. Firstly, they must dedicate a portion of their time to the duties and responsibilities of the council. This includes participating in council meetings, contributing to discussions, and providing expert advice on statistical issues. Members are also expected to adhere to the council's code of conduct and any other guidelines or policies established by the council. Furthermore, they must maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive statistical information and avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise their advisory role. Failure to comply with the obligations and requirements outlined in the legislation may result in various consequences. While the specific offences and penalties are not detailed in this particular instrument, breaches of obligations under the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 generally could lead to disciplinary actions or termination of appointment. In more serious cases, legal action might be pursued, which could result in civil or criminal penalties. These might include fines or other sanctions, depending on the severity and nature of the breach. It is important for the appointed members to fully understand and adhere to their responsibilities to avoid any potential repercussions.