Australian Statistics Advisory Council (Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2026

Overview

The Australian Statistics Advisory Council (Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2026I, enacted in 2026, addresses the need to appoint a member to the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, ensuring its continued function and provision of expert advice on matters related to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This instrument is issued by Dr. Andrew Leigh, the Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities, and Treasury, under the authority granted by subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. The policy objective of this appointment is to maintain the Council's capacity to provide independent advice and ensure the quality and integrity of statistical services in Australia. This appointment of Nicholas Biddle as a part-time member for a period of three years is aimed at supporting the ongoing effectiveness of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council in fulfilling its statutory role.

Scope and Application

The Australian Statistics Advisory Council (Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2026I is a notifiable instrument that pertains to the appointment of Nicholas Biddle as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a term of three years. This appointment is made by Andrew Leigh, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, under the authority conferred by subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975. The instrument’s scope is narrowly focused on the specific appointment of an individual to the Council, with no broader implications for other entities, industries, or conduct outside this specific appointment. Its jurisdictional reach is confined to the Commonwealth, as it relates directly to the operations of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council, which functions under the auspices of the Australian Bureau of Statistics. No exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds are specified in the text, and it does not extend or restrict application through subordinate instruments. This instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation and comes into effect on the day after its registration.

Key Provisions

The Australian Statistics Advisory Council (Member) Appointment (No. 3) 2026I (F2026N00043) appoints Nicholas Biddle as a part-time member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council for a term of three years, commencing on the day following its registration on the Federal Register of Legislation (section 1). This appointment is made under subsection 19(2) of the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975 by Dr Andrew Leigh, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury. As a member of the Council, Nicholas Biddle will likely participate in providing advice and recommendations on the operations and policies of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The appointment of Nicholas Biddle as a member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council imposes specific obligations on him. As a member, he is expected to contribute to the Council's work by providing expert advice and recommendations on matters related to the operations and policies of the ABS. This includes participating in meetings, discussions, and other activities as required by the Council. Given the nature of the role, he is also expected to act in accordance with any guidelines or instructions provided by the Council. Breaching the obligations and requirements of the role as a member of the Australian Statistics Advisory Council does not carry specific criminal or civil penalties as outlined in this particular instrument. However, failure to fulfil the duties expected from a Council member could result in consequences such as removal from the position or other administrative actions as deemed appropriate by the appointing authority. Additionally, any misconduct or breaches of ethical standards might also be subject to further scrutiny or disciplinary measures by the relevant authorities.