Competition and Consumer (Data Standards Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2025

Overview

The Competition and Consumer (Data Standards Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2025I was enacted in 2025 to address the growing need for an expert in data standards to oversee and guide the implementation of robust data practices in the competitive and consumer markets. This notifiable instrument was introduced by the Australian Parliament, specifically by Daniel Mulino, the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, under the authority granted by subsection 56FG(1) of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. The policy objective of this legislation is to ensure that the appointed Data Standards Chair, in this case Scott Farrell, can provide full-time leadership from 10 December 2025 until 9 December 2027, thereby fostering a more transparent and competitive marketplace through improved data management and standards.

Scope and Application

The Competition and Consumer (Data Standards Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2025 Instrument appoints Scott Farrell as the Data Standards Chair under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. This appointment is made by Daniel Mulino, the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, and is effective from 10 December 2025 until 9 December 2027 on a full-time basis. The Data Standards Chair will be responsible for overseeing the implementation and maintenance of data standards that ensure fair competition and consumer protection within the Australian marketplace. This role is pivotal in ensuring that data practices across various industries comply with national standards, thus promoting transparency, efficiency, and reliability in data usage. The geographic reach of this appointment is national, encompassing all states and territories within Australia. The Data Standards Chair will have the authority to issue directives and recommendations that apply across the entire Australian jurisdiction, ensuring a cohesive approach to data standardisation. The instrument does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, implying that the Data Standards Chair's remit is comprehensive and not limited by specific conditions or criteria. The application of this appointment may be further detailed or extended through subordinate instruments, which will provide additional guidelines or specific directives to support the Data Standards Chair in fulfilling their duties.

Key Provisions

The Competition and Consumer (Data Standards Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2025I, executed by Daniel Mulino, Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, under subsection 56FG(1) of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010, designates Scott Farrell as the Data Standards Chair on a full-time basis. This appointment is effective from 10 December 2025 and will last until 9 December 2027. This legislation is clear in its purpose, outlining the appointment and the duration of Scott Farrell's term as the Data Standards Chair. It ensures that the individual responsible for setting and maintaining data standards within the scope of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 is duly appointed by the relevant authority. Scott Farrell's appointment as Data Standards Chair entails specific obligations and responsibilities that he must fulfil during his tenure. His role will likely involve overseeing the establishment and maintenance of data standards to ensure they meet the necessary regulatory and consumer protection requirements. This includes collaborating with industry stakeholders, providing guidance on compliance, and potentially conducting reviews and updates to the data standards as needed. The position demands a thorough understanding of data governance, consumer protection laws, and the ability to balance the interests of various stakeholders in the data ecosystem. The Competition and Consumer Act 2010, along with the Notifiable instrument, establishes a framework within which Scott Farrell must operate. He is expected to adhere to the guidelines set out by the Act, which includes ensuring that data standards are transparent, fair, and protect consumer interests. Failure to comply with these obligations could lead to various consequences, including the possibility of termination of his appointment and potential legal action against him for any breaches of his duties. The Act also mandates that any significant changes or updates to the data standards must be communicated effectively to all relevant parties to ensure widespread compliance and understanding. In terms of penalties and consequences for breaches of the legislation, the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 provides for both civil and criminal sanctions. For instance, individuals found guilty of serious breaches may face fines and imprisonment, with the maximum penalties varying depending on the severity and impact of the offence. Additionally, organisations that fail to comply with the data standards could be subject to substantial fines and other regulatory actions. The Act aims to deter non-compliance by imposing significant consequences, thereby ensuring that data standards are upheld to protect consumers and maintain fair competition in the market. The Notifiable instrument itself does not specify penalties but refers to the overarching Act for such details.