Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 3) Authorisation 2024

Overview

The Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 3) Authorisation 2024I was enacted in 2024 to facilitate the delegation of certain ministerial functions and powers within the Treasury portfolio. This notifiable instrument specifically authorises Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services, to act on behalf of Julie Collins, the Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness, and Minister for Small Business, in relation to functions and duties concerning housing supply and affordability as well as small business policy and programs. The authorisation is necessary to ensure continuity in policy implementation and decision-making during the specified period from 1 August 2024 to 4 August 2024, when Julie Collins is temporarily unavailable to perform her roles. The policy objective is to maintain the effective governance and administration of critical areas such as housing and small business support, ensuring no legislative or policy gaps during the temporary absence of the primary minister.

Scope and Application

The Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 3) Authorisation 2024I applies to the performance and exercise of certain ministerial functions and duties under specified Acts, particularly those related to housing supply and affordability, as well as small business policy and programmes. This authorisation allows Amanda Rishworth, the Minister for Social Services, to act on behalf of Julie Collins, the Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness, and Minister for Small Business, during the period of 1 August 2024 to 4 August 2024. The authorisation is limited to the functions and duties explicitly mentioned in the relevant part of the Schedule to the Administrative Arrangements Order, which pertains to the Department of the Treasury. The scope of this authorisation is confined to the geographic jurisdiction of Australia and is effective for the stated duration, ensuring continuity in policy implementation and ministerial responsibilities during the specified period.

Key Provisions

The Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 3) Authorisation 2024I, under section 34AAB(1) of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901, allows Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services, to act on behalf of Julie Collins, Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness, and Minister for Small Business, in relation to specific functions, duties, and powers related to housing supply and affordability or small business policy and programmes within the Department of the Treasury. This authorisation is effective from 1 August 2024 until 4 August 2024, during which Amanda Rishworth is authorised to perform any tasks that Julie Collins might normally undertake under relevant Acts or provisions of Acts. Under this authorisation, Amanda Rishworth is granted the authority to carry out any actions that Julie Collins could normally do, such as making decisions, issuing directives, or providing approvals in the areas of housing supply and affordability or small business policy and programmes. This includes the power to make decisions on matters that would typically require Julie Collins's involvement, ensuring continuity in these specific policy areas during her absence. Failure to adhere to the specific terms and conditions outlined in this authorisation could potentially lead to legal repercussions. Although the legislation does not explicitly state any penalties or consequences for breaches, any unauthorised actions taken outside the scope of this authorisation could be considered unlawful and might result in legal challenges or administrative penalties as deemed appropriate by the courts or relevant authorities. It is crucial that Amanda Rishworth strictly adheres to the boundaries set by this authorisation to avoid any legal complications. Overall, this authorisation ensures that there is no disruption in the governance and policy implementation within the housing and small business sectors during the specified period. By clearly defining the scope of Amanda Rishworth's authority, it provides a legal framework for her to act effectively in the absence of Julie Collins, thereby maintaining the continuity of essential services and policy initiatives.