Public Service (Secretary of the Department of Defence) Appointment 2026

Overview

The Public Service (Secretary of the Department of Defence) Appointment 2026I, enacted in 2026, is a notifiable instrument designed to address the need for a qualified and capable individual to assume the role of Secretary of the Department of Defence. This appointment was made by the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, acting on the advice of the Federal Executive Council and pursuant to subsection 58(1) of the Public Service Act 1999. The primary policy objective of this appointment is to ensure that the Department of Defence is led by an experienced and distinguished public servant, thereby maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of Australia's defence administration. Ms Meghan Quinn PSM has been appointed for a term of five years, commencing on 18 May 2026, reflecting the government’s commitment to stability and continuity in this critical leadership role.

Scope and Application

The instrument F2026N00327 (Notifiable instrument) pertains to the appointment of Ms Meghan Quinn PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Defence for a term of five years starting on 18 May 2026. This appointment is made under subsection 58(1) of the Public Service Act 1999, and it is executed by the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, with the advice of the Federal Executive Council. This appointment applies to Ms Quinn personally, as she is being assigned to the role of Secretary within the Department of Defence, a key entity of the Australian government responsible for the policy and administration of the Australian Defence Force and related matters. The instrument operates within the jurisdictional reach of the Commonwealth, reflecting the national importance of the position and the responsibilities it entails. The instrument does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, and it is anticipated that any further elaboration on its application may be provided through subordinate instruments or guidelines issued by the relevant authorities.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of this notifiable instrument (F2026N00327) concern the appointment of Ms Meghan Quinn PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Defence for a term of five years, beginning on 18 May 2026. The appointment is made by the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, following advice from the Federal Executive Council, and under the authority granted by subsection 58(1) of the Public Service Act 1999 (section 1). This instrument formalises the appointment process, ensuring that it adheres to the legal framework established by the relevant act. Under this notifiable instrument, Ms Quinn is tasked with the responsibilities and duties associated with her role as Secretary of the Department of Defence. This includes overseeing the operations of the department, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, and managing the public service within the department. The obligations extend to providing strategic direction, maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of the department, and ensuring that the public service principles outlined in the Public Service Act 1999 are upheld (section 2). Breaching the terms of the Public Service Act 1999 or failing to meet the responsibilities outlined in this notifiable instrument could result in significant consequences. While specific offences and penalties are detailed in the Public Service Act 1999, they may include disciplinary action, potential removal from office, and other legal ramifications. The penalties for breaches can vary, but they may encompass both criminal and civil liabilities, depending on the nature and severity of the misconduct or failure to comply with the statutory requirements (section 3).