New regulations prevent political interference
As the Australian Government prepares to launch the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) next month, new regulations have been introduced to ensure transparency and fairness in the appointment of non-judicial members.
The ART is designed to streamline federal administrative reviews with a focus on merit-based selection processes. It will replace the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) on October 14, 2024.
Specifically, the Administrative Review Tribunal Regulations 2024 outline a clear framework for appointing members, including publicly advertising roles, applying specific selection criteria, and requiring assessment panels to review applications, conduct interviews, and gather referee reports before making recommendations.
The regulations include several safeguards to maintain the integrity of the process. One key provision requires publishing the names of panellists after the assessment process concludes.
In addition, panellists will operate independently, without ministerial influence, and individuals employed under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 are barred from serving on panels. Conflicts of interest must also be disclosed and managed according to the set guidelines.
The government stated in a press release that the regulations reflect the its commitment to ensuring transparency in the ART’s appointment process ahead of its official start next month.
