SENATOR THE HON KATY GALLAGHER
MINISTER FOR FINANCE
MINISTER FOR WOMEN
MINISTER FOR THE PUBLIC SERVICE
MINISTER FOR GOVERNMENT SERVICES
SENATOR FOR THE ACT

GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES NEW APPOINTMENTS FRAMEWORK

The Albanese Labor government has today released the new Australian Government Appointments Framework, informed by the Final Report into the Review of Public Sector Board Appointments Processes conducted by Ms Lynelle Briggs AO.

This Framework is part of the Government’s APS Reform program; it comes into effect from 2 February 2026 and marks a significant step forward in reforming how appointments are made to public offices across the Commonwealth.

The Framework incorporates recommendations from the Briggs Review, establishing clear ministerial responsibility and accountability for appointments, and goes beyond the Review’s scope to include a broader range of Commonwealth appointments, including agency heads and Secretaries.

Developed through a multi-stage process, including extensive consultation across government, the Framework is robust, flexible, and fit-for-purpose.

It replaces the 2008 Australian Government Merit and Transparency Policy, and introduces foundational principles, practical tools, and guidance to support agencies.

Rather than prescribing rigid, one-size-fits-all rules, the Framework empowers Ministers and agencies to tailor selection processes to the unique requirements of each role, while maintaining high standards of accountability and public trust.

This approach ensures the Framework can adapt to evolving needs and circumstances, supporting robust and fair appointments in a dynamic public sector.

The Framework forms part of a broader integrity work program, which includes reforms to the Ministerial Code of Conduct, whistleblower protections, and the establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

Departments are expected to support appointment processes by providing strong operational and administrative capability and high-quality advice, enabling a broader range of quality candidates and making government appointments more effective.

The Framework, and reports are available online at the following links:
Australian Government Appointments Framework
Final Report into the Review of Public Sector Board Appointments Processes
APS Reform progress report

Quotes attributed to Minister for the Public Service, Katy Gallagher:

“Australians expect the highest standards of integrity and transparency in public sector appointments. Our new Australian Government Appointments Framework delivers on that expectation, setting out clear principles and best practice guidance for ministers and departments.

“We took the time to get this right. We listened to stakeholders, and have designed a Framework that will serve the Australian community for years to come.

“We want to make the best appointments in the national interest with an emphasis on merit, diversity, accountability and this new Framework delivers this.

“This Framework is about making sure appointments are made on merit, with transparency and accountability at every step. We are committed to upholding integrity and ensuring our public sector reflects the diversity of the people we represent.

“The Government thanks Ms Briggs for her detailed work and considered report which has underpinned a new and fit for purpose appointments framework for the Australian Government.”

ENDS