Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 6) Authorisation 2025

Overview

The Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 6) Authorisation 2025I, enacted in 2025, establishes a temporary acting arrangement within the Treasury portfolio to ensure the continuity of ministerial functions and duties during a specified period of absence or incapacity. Authorised under the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 by Jim Chalmers, the Treasurer, the authorisation empowers Katy Gallagher, the Minister for Finance, to act on his behalf from 15 October 2025 until 22 October 2025. This measure addresses the need for seamless governmental operations by providing a clear legal framework for the delegation of authority within the Treasury portfolio during the specified timeframe, ensuring that critical functions and decision-making processes are maintained without interruption.

Scope and Application

The Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 6) Authorisation 2025I, issued under the authority of Jim Chalmers, the Treasurer, and pursuant to subsections 19(4) and 34AAB(1) of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901, empowers Katy Gallagher, the Minister for Finance, to act on behalf of the Treasurer during the specified period from 15 October 2025 to 22 October 2025. This authorisation encompasses the functions, duties, and powers that the Treasurer may perform or exercise under any Act or provision of an Act within the Treasury portfolio. The scope of this authorisation is limited to the duration specified, ensuring that Katy Gallagher can fulfil the Treasurer's responsibilities in his absence without any legislative gaps. The authority granted under this instrument is strictly bounded by the terms outlined, and any actions taken by Katy Gallagher under this authorisation must align with the original powers and duties of the Treasurer.

Key Provisions

The Ministerial Powers (Acting Arrangements in the Treasury Portfolio) (No. 6) Authorisation 2025I, issued by Jim Chalmers, the Treasurer, authorises Katy Gallagher, the Minister for Finance, to act on his behalf from 15 October 2025 to 22 October 2025. This authorisation is provided under subsections 19(4) and 34AAB(1) of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901, enabling Katy Gallagher to perform or exercise any functions, duties, or powers that the Treasurer may carry out under an Act or a provision of an Act during the specified period. Under this authorisation, Katy Gallagher is empowered to act on behalf of the Treasurer, meaning she can make decisions, sign documents, and perform any other duties that would normally be undertaken by the Treasurer. This includes responsibilities related to financial management, budget allocations, and other duties that fall within the Treasury Portfolio. The authorisation is clear in its scope, ensuring that Katy Gallagher's acting role is well-defined and limited to the specified functions and timeframe. The obligations and requirements imposed by this authorisation are straightforward. Katy Gallagher must exercise her powers and perform her duties in accordance with the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 and any other relevant legislation. She is expected to act with the same authority and responsibility as the Treasurer would, ensuring that all actions taken are lawful and in the best interest of the government and the public. Failure to adhere to the terms of this authorisation, or any misuse of the powers granted, could lead to civil or criminal consequences. Although specific penalties are not detailed within the authorisation itself, any breach of the authority granted could potentially lead to legal action under the relevant Acts or the common law. The seriousness of any penalties would depend on the nature and extent of the breach, and could include fines, imprisonment, or other legal sanctions as determined by the courts.