Productivity Commission (Associate Commissioner) Appointment (No. 4) 2023

Overview

The Productivity Commission (Associate Commissioner) Appointment (No. 4) 2023 instrument, dated 21 December 2023, was enacted under the authority of Katy Gallagher, the Minister for Finance, in accordance with subsection 25(2) of the Productivity Commission Act 1998. This legislative instrument was introduced to address the need for additional expertise and diverse perspectives within the Productivity Commission by appointing Anne Poelina as an Associate Commissioner on a part-time basis. The appointment aims to enhance the Commission's capacity to undertake comprehensive economic and social analyses, ensuring the incorporation of varied viewpoints into its recommendations and reports. The policy objective underpinning this appointment is to bolster the effectiveness and credibility of the Productivity Commission by leveraging the skills and experience of distinguished individuals.

Scope and Application

The Productivity Commission (Associate Commissioner) Appointment (No. 4) 2023 applies to the appointment of Anne Poelina as an Associate Commissioner of the Productivity Commission on a part-time basis for a specified period. This legislation is issued under the authority of the Productivity Commission Act 1998, and it is applicable to an individual, Anne Poelina, who is deemed eligible for the role as per the requirements of the Act. The appointment has a defined duration, commencing the day after the instrument is registered on the Federal Register of Legislation and ending on 28 May 2024. The Act falls within the jurisdictional reach of the Commonwealth of Australia, as it pertains to federal legislation concerning the Productivity Commission. There are no stated exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds in this particular instrument. The application of the Act may be extended or restricted through subordinate instruments, but such provisions are not detailed in this specific notification.

Key Provisions

The Productivity Commission (Associate Commissioner) Appointment (No. 4) 2023I, dated 21 December 2023, establishes the appointment of Anne Poelina as an Associate Commissioner of the Productivity Commission, effective from the day following its registration on the Federal Register of Legislation and continuing until 28 May 2024 (section 1). This instrument is issued under subsection 25(2) of the Productivity Commission Act 1998 by Katy Gallagher, Minister for Finance, who is satisfied that Ms. Poelina is eligible for the role as per subsection 25(3) of that Act (section 1). The role is designated as part-time. This appointment imposes specific obligations on Ms. Poelina, including fulfilling the duties and responsibilities associated with being an Associate Commissioner of the Productivity Commission. These duties likely encompass participating in Commission activities, contributing to research and analysis, and representing the Commission in relevant forums. Additionally, the role requires Ms. Poelina to adhere to any guidelines or directives provided by the Commission and to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity. Her part-time nature of the appointment may affect the extent and scope of her involvement compared to a full-time Associate Commissioner. In the event of a breach of the terms and conditions of this appointment or any associated duties, Ms. Poelina may face both civil and criminal consequences. While specific penalties are not detailed in the instrument, breaches of the Productivity Commission Act 1998 can lead to various civil and criminal penalties. For instance, under section 12 of the Act, engaging in conduct that is misleading or deceptive, or that is otherwise contrary to the public interest, can result in fines and imprisonment. The maximum penalties for such offences can include substantial fines for individuals and companies, reflecting the seriousness of undermining the Commission’s integrity and public trust. It is crucial for Ms. Poelina to comply with all relevant laws and regulations to avoid any potential legal repercussions.