Public Service (Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care) Appointment 2023

Overview

The Public Service (Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care) Appointment 2023 was enacted as a notifiable instrument under the Public Service Act 1999. This legislation was introduced to address the need for a formal and transparent process for appointing the Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care. The enactment is authorised by the Commonwealth of Australia and executed by the Governor-General in accordance with the advice of the Federal Executive Council. The policy objective is to ensure that the appointment of the Secretary, a critical role within the public service, adheres to the highest standards of governance and accountability. By providing a formal appointment process, the legislation reinforces the integrity and efficiency of public administration within the Department of Health and Aged Care.

Scope and Application

The Public Service (Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care) Appointment 2023 under the Public Service Act 1999 is a notifiable instrument that concerns the appointment of Blair Comley PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Health for a term of five years commencing on 17 July 2023. This appointment is made by the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), with the advice of the Federal Executive Council and pursuant to subsection 58(1) of the Public Service Act 1999. The appointment applies directly to Blair Comley PSM and the Department of Health, influencing the conduct and administration of health policies and services within the Commonwealth. The geographic reach of this legislation is national, as it pertains to a federal department under the Australian government. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions in this notifiable instrument, and it operates within the established framework of the Public Service Act 1999, which may be further defined or restricted through subordinate instruments as necessary.

Key Provisions

The Public Service (Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care) Appointment 2023 (F2023N00222) is a notifiable instrument under the Public Service Act 1999. This instrument appoints Blair Comley PSM as the Secretary of the Department of Health for a term of five years starting from 17 July 2023. This appointment is made by the Governor-General, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council and under the authority provided by subsection 58(1) of the Public Service Act 1999. The primary operative sections of this instrument involve the formal appointment of Blair Comley PSM to the position of Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care. This appointment is significant as it outlines the responsibilities and duties that Blair Comley will undertake during his tenure. The term of this appointment is clearly defined as five years, ensuring both the Department and the Secretary are aware of the duration of the role. The Act imposes several obligations and requirements on Blair Comley as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Aged Care. These include ensuring the efficient and effective administration of the department, adherence to government policies and directives, and oversight of the department’s functions and activities. Blair Comley is also required to maintain the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all actions and decisions taken within his role. The Public Service Act 1999 includes provisions for offences, penalties, and consequences for breaches of the Act's requirements. While the notifiable instrument itself does not specify penalties, the overarching Act provides for various sanctions in case of non-compliance. For instance, breaches of the Act can result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment. Additionally, serious breaches may lead to criminal charges, with potential penalties varying based on the severity and nature of the offence. The specific penalties are outlined in the broader framework of the Public Service Act 1999 and can include fines and imprisonment for more severe violations.