Industry Research and Development Act 1986 (Industry Growth Program Committee) Instrument of Appointment 2024

Overview

The Industry Research and Development Act 1986 was enacted to support the development and commercialisation of research and development activities across various industries in Australia. This legislation was introduced to address the need for a coordinated approach to fostering innovation and economic growth through targeted investment and strategic advice. The Industry Growth Program Committee, as appointed by this notifiable instrument, plays a crucial role in this framework by providing expert advice to the Board on the Industry Growth Program and executing delegated functions and powers to ensure the program's effectiveness. This appointment underscores the policy objective of enhancing the competitive edge of Australian industries through informed and strategic support mechanisms. The instrument, issued on 12 April 2024 by Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science, ensures that the Committee is equipped to fulfil its advisory and operational responsibilities as stipulated under the Act.

Scope and Application

The Industry Research and Development Act 1986 establishes a framework for fostering innovation and growth within Australian industries through various programs and committees. Pursuant to this Act, the Industry Growth Program Committee of Industry Innovation and Science Australia has been appointed to provide advice to the Board on matters relating to the operation of the Industry Growth Program and to exercise any functions or powers delegated to it by the Board under subsection 21(1) of the Act. This appointment is made by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic, under subsection 22(1) of the Act, with the instrument of appointment coming into effect on 12 April 2024. The Committee's role is pivotal in ensuring the effective implementation and oversight of industry growth initiatives, thereby supporting the overarching objectives of the Act. The legislation applies to the appointed committee and its activities within the scope of the Industry Growth Program, impacting the broader industry sector by facilitating strategic advice and delegated functions.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of the Industry Research and Development Act 1986 (Industry Growth Program Committee) Instrument of Appointment 2024I (subsection 22(1)) involve the appointment of the Industry Growth Program Committee (the Committee) by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic, with effect from 12 April 2024. This appointment is to provide advice to the Board on matters relating to the operation of the Industry Growth Program, as well as to exercise any functions or powers delegated to it by the Board under subsection 21(1) of the Act. The Act, therefore, empowers the Committee to engage in specific activities related to the Industry Growth Program and to act on behalf of the Board in executing its functions. The obligations and requirements imposed by the Act on the appointed Committee include the duty to offer informed and expert advice to the Board concerning the Industry Growth Program's operation. Additionally, the Committee must perform any tasks or utilise any authorities delegated by the Board, as specified under subsection 21(1) of the Act. This necessitates that the Committee operate within the scope of its delegated powers and ensure that its activities are aligned with the overall objectives and directives of the Board. Should the Committee fail to comply with the provisions outlined in the Act, various legal consequences may arise. While the specific offences, penalties, or consequences are not detailed in the provided text, it is reasonable to infer that breaches of the Act could result in legal actions against the Committee. This could include civil or criminal penalties, depending on the nature and severity of the breach. The maximum penalties, if applicable, would be determined by the relevant courts in accordance with the general provisions of Australian law pertaining to breaches of statutory duties and obligations. In summary, the Act mandates the Committee to provide expert advice and to execute delegated functions related to the Industry Growth Program. Failure to adhere to the Act's provisions may result in legal consequences, although the specific penalties are not explicitly stated in the document. The overarching aim of this legislation is to ensure that the Industry Growth Program is effectively managed and supported by the Committee, in line with the Board's strategic objectives.