Net Zero Economy Authority (Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group) Appointment (No. 5) 2025

Overview

The Net Zero Economy Authority (Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group) Appointment (No. 5) 2025I, enacted in 2025, serves to address the emerging need for a strategic advisory body focused on the redeployment of workers within the energy sector as Australia transitions towards a net-zero economy. This instrument was introduced by Tim Ayres, the Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia, under subsection 63(3) of the Net Zero Economy Authority Act 2024. The primary policy objective of this legislation is to ensure that the transition to a sustainable energy future is managed in a way that mitigates adverse impacts on workers and the broader economy, thereby facilitating a just transition. By appointing Darcy Gunning as a member of the Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group, the legislation aims to harness expert advice and insights to guide policy and practice in this critical area.

Scope and Application

The Net Zero Economy Authority (Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group) Appointment (No. 5) 2025I applies to the appointment of Darcy Gunning as a member of the Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group under the authority of the Net Zero Economy Authority Act 2024. This appointment is made by Tim Ayres, the Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia, and is effective for a period of three years from the day after this instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation. The legislation targets the specific role within the Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group, which likely involves advising on the redeployment of workers in the energy sector as Australia transitions towards a net zero economy. This appointment is a Commonwealth-level initiative and applies within the jurisdiction of the Australian government. While the Act itself does not explicitly outline exclusions or exemptions, its application is primarily confined to the administrative and advisory functions related to the redeployment of energy industry workers. The Act may be extended or restricted in its application through subordinate instruments, which are not specified in the text.

Key Provisions

The main operative section of the legislation, section 2(1), appoints Darcy Gunning as a member of the Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group for a period of three years. This appointment is made under the authority granted by subsection 63(3) of the Net Zero Economy Authority Act 2024, and the appointment takes effect from the day after the instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation. This provision ensures that Darcy Gunning will serve on the advisory group, which is tasked with providing expert advice on the redeployment of workers within the energy industry, particularly in the context of transitioning to a net zero economy. The Act imposes several obligations on the parties it governs. Firstly, Darcy Gunning, as a member of the Energy Industry Worker Redeployment Advisory Group, is expected to provide informed, expert advice to the group on matters related to the redeployment of energy industry workers. This involves participating in meetings, contributing to discussions, and collaborating with other group members to develop recommendations and strategies that support the smooth transition of workers to new roles and industries. Additionally, Gunning must adhere to any guidelines or protocols established by the advisory group to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the group’s work. There are no explicit offences, penalties, or consequences for breach mentioned in this particular legislation. However, by accepting the appointment, Darcy Gunning implicitly agrees to perform his duties with the expected level of diligence and commitment. Failure to fulfil the obligations of the role could potentially lead to repercussions such as removal from the advisory group, although the specific procedures for such actions are not outlined in this instrument. In a broader context, any breaches of conduct or ethical standards by a member could result in disciplinary actions as prescribed by the relevant laws and regulations governing public service appointments.