Australian Competition Tribunal –Deputy Presidents – Appointment (No. 1) 2026

Overview

The Australian Competition Tribunal –Deputy Presidents – Appointment (No. 1) 2026I was enacted in 2026 to address the need for additional part-time Deputy Presidents to assist in the administration of the Australian Competition Tribunal. This notifiable instrument was issued by the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, in accordance with subsection 30(3) of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. The policy objective of this legislation is to ensure that the Australian Competition Tribunal has the necessary capacity to effectively manage its caseload and to provide timely resolutions to disputes and matters related to competition and consumer law in Australia. The appointments of Jonathan Beach, Catherine Button, Penelope Neskovcin, and Cameron Moore as Deputy Presidents for a period of five years from 26 March 2026, aim to enhance the Tribunal’s efficiency and capability in handling its judicial responsibilities.

Scope and Application

The Australian Competition Tribunal –Deputy Presidents – Appointment (No. 1) 2026I applies to the individuals named, Jonathan Beach, Catherine Button, Penelope Neskovcin, and Cameron Moore, who are appointed as Deputy Presidents of the Australian Competition Tribunal. The appointment pertains to part-time roles, each beginning on 26 March 2026 and lasting for five years. The Act is established under the authority of the Commonwealth of Australia and is executed by the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General, acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council, as mandated by subsection 30(3) of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. This legislation ensures that the tribunal, a body involved in resolving competition and consumer matters, has the necessary personnel to fulfil its judicial functions. The Act does not specify any geographic restrictions beyond the national jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Australia. It operates within the framework of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, and any additional provisions or modifications to its application may be addressed through subordinate instruments as necessary.

Key Provisions

The Australian Competition Tribunal – Deputy Presidents – Appointment (No. 1) 2026I, under section 30(3) of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, appoints Jonathan Beach, Catherine Button, Penelope Neskovcin, and Cameron Moore as Deputy Presidents of the Australian Competition Tribunal. Each of these appointments is on a part-time basis and is effective from 26 March 2026, lasting for a period of five years. This instrument serves to formalise the appointments, ensuring that the tribunal has the necessary personnel to conduct its work efficiently and effectively. The obligations of these newly appointed Deputy Presidents are significant. They are expected to bring their expertise to the tribunal, assisting in its primary role of overseeing and resolving issues related to competition and consumer law. This includes participating in hearings, making decisions on cases brought before the tribunal, and contributing to the broader policy and regulatory framework governing competition and consumer matters in Australia. Each Deputy President must adhere to the principles of judicial independence and impartiality, ensuring that decisions are made based on the merits of the case and the applicable laws. Failure to comply with the obligations outlined in their appointments or to uphold the standards expected of a Deputy President may result in serious consequences. While the instrument does not explicitly detail penalties for breaches, it is likely that any failure to meet these obligations could lead to disciplinary actions, including potential removal from office. Furthermore, any misconduct or breaches of the judicial code of conduct could also result in legal action, with possible civil or criminal penalties depending on the severity and nature of the breach. Given the importance of their roles, the Deputy Presidents are expected to conduct themselves with the highest degree of integrity and professionalism.