Housing Australia (Acting Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2026

Overview

The Housing Australia (Acting Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2026I was enacted on 16 July 2026 by Clare O’Neil, Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness and Minister for Cities, under the authority provided by the Housing Australia Act 2018 and the Acts Interpretation Act 1901. This notifiable instrument addresses the need to ensure continuity of leadership within the Housing Australia Board during a transitional period. By appointing Damien Tangey as the acting Chair on a part-time basis from 19 July 2026 until the earlier of 18 October 2026 or the commencement of the next substantive Chair, the legislation aims to maintain operational stability and ensure that the board can continue its functions without significant disruption. This interim measure supports the overarching policy objective of providing consistent oversight and direction in housing policies and initiatives during a critical time.

Scope and Application

The F2026N00517 Notifiable Instrument, titled "Housing Australia (Acting Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2026I," appoints Damien Tangey as the acting Chair of the Housing Australia Board on a part-time basis, effective from 19 July 2026 until 18 October 2026 or the day before the next substantive Chair's appointment under section 19 of the Housing Australia Act 2018 takes effect. Clare O’Neil, as Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness, and Minister for Cities, exercises this authority under the Act and the Acts Interpretation Act 1901. The remuneration and allowances for the acting Chair during this period are set according to those applicable to the substantive Chair of the Housing Australia Board. This appointment is made in accordance with the provisions of the Act, ensuring the continuity of the board's leadership and governance within the specified timeframe, thereby maintaining the operations and objectives of the Housing Australia Board.

Key Provisions

The main provisions of the notifiable instrument, F2026N00517, are found in the Housing Australia (Acting Chair) Appointment (No. 1) 2026I, which establishes the appointment of Damien Tangey as the acting Chair of the Housing Australia Board. This appointment (section (a)) is effective from 19 July 2026 and will last until 18 October 2026 or until the appointment of the next substantive Chair, as per section 19 of the Act, whichever comes first. The remuneration and allowances for the acting Chair during this period (section (b)) will be the same as those applicable to the Chair of the Housing Australia Board. The Act imposes several obligations on the parties involved. The acting Chair, Damien Tangey, is expected to perform the duties and responsibilities of the Chair of the Housing Australia Board in accordance with the Act and any relevant regulations. This includes managing the board and overseeing the operations of Housing Australia in the absence of a substantive Chair. Additionally, the remuneration and allowances payable to the acting Chair are determined to be those that would apply to the substantive Chair, ensuring consistency and fairness in compensation. The notifiable instrument does not explicitly state any offences, penalties, or consequences for breach. However, it is implicit that any failure to adhere to the terms of the appointment or any misuse of the acting Chair's authority could potentially lead to legal consequences under the relevant provisions of the Housing Australia Act 2018 or other applicable laws. The Act itself may contain provisions that outline penalties for breaches, but these are not detailed within the instrument. In general, any misconduct or breach of duty by the acting Chair could result in disciplinary action, termination of the appointment, or other legal repercussions as deemed appropriate under the governing legislation.