Commonwealth Entities Legislation Amendment Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 11 February 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The Attorney-General moved the second reading of the bill, which aims to strengthen accountability and integrity measures for statutory office holders in several Commonwealth entities. The legislation expands grounds for termination and introduces suspension powers for officials at ACIAR, Austrade, ASNO, and the Office of Parliamentary Counsel, while maintaining independence for the Director of Safeguards. The government framed these changes as necessary to restore public trust and ensure safe workplaces. As no other members spoke, the debate was adjourned without further discussion.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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2. Tuesday 3 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Reference to Federation Chamber
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3. Tuesday 3 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned amendments to appointment, suspension, and termination arrangements for statutory office holders at four Commonwealth entities: ACIAR, Austrade, ASNO, and the Office of Parliamentary Counsel. The bill reduces maximum terms from seven to five years and expands termination grounds to include serious misconduct and unsatisfactory performance, while introducing ministerial suspension powers and general directions for the Office of Parliamentary Counsel. Labor members argued the changes modernise accountability and align with workplace standards, while opposition and independent members raised concerns about reduced transparency, increased executive control, and the limited scope of the reforms. The bill passed its second reading without amendment.

   Outcome: The bill was read a second time and reported to the House without amendment.

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4. Wednesday 4 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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5. Wednesday 4 March 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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6. Wednesday 4 March 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Commonwealth Entities Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, which aimed to strengthen accountability and integrity measures for statutory office holders. The Assistant Minister for Tourism argued that the legislation addressed gaps in existing arrangements by expanding grounds for termination and introducing suspension powers. The bill specifically targeted entities including ACIAR, Austrade, ASNO, and the Office of Parliamentary Counsel, while preserving the independence of the Director of Safeguards. The debate concluded with the motion being adjourned.

   Outcome: The debate was adjourned.

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7. Monday 23 March 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the Commonwealth Entities Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, which proposed changes to the governance of four statutory bodies. The Shadow Attorney-General argued that the bill increased executive control over statutory officeholders without adequate parliamentary scrutiny or evidence of systemic failure. Key concerns included new powers for ministers to set performance standards, suspend, or terminate officeholders, and issue directions to the Office of Parliamentary Counsel. The speaker opposed the bill due to the lack of committee examination and reduced transparency regarding ministerial actions.

   Outcome: The debate was interrupted before a vote was taken.

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8. Tuesday 24 March 2026 · Senate

   In Committee

   The debate focused on the transparency and accountability mechanisms within the Commonwealth Entities Legislation Amendment Bill 2026. Senator Cash opposed the bill, arguing it transferred power to the executive without parliamentary oversight, specifically regarding secret performance standards and ministerial directions. Senator Green defended the bill as a modernisation measure to ensure integrity and accountability in four Commonwealth entities. The committee stage concluded with the bill being reported without amendment.

   Outcome: The bill was agreed to and reported without amendment.

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9. Tuesday 24 March 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the Commonwealth Entities Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, which aims to strengthen accountability for statutory office holders. Senator Malcolm Roberts opposed the bill, arguing it increased ministerial discretion and reduced transparency in public service management. Assistant Minister Nita Green supported the legislation, stating it ensures integrity and allows for the removal of officials who breach conduct codes or perform unsatisfactorily. The bill passed the Senate with a vote of 36 to 25.

   Outcome: The bill passed the Senate with a division result of 36 votes in favour and 25 against.

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10. Tuesday 24 March 2026 · Senate

    Third Reading
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