Transparent and Quality Public Appointments Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

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

1. Monday 2 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate focused on reintroducing legislation to reform public appointments by establishing independent selection panels and a public appointments commissioner. Members argued that the current system allows for political patronage, citing examples from both previous and current governments. They criticised the government for withholding the Briggs review and failing to implement its recommendations for legislated safeguards. The bill aims to increase transparency and restore public trust through merit-based selection processes and cooling-off periods for former politicians.

   Outcome: The motion for the second reading was moved and seconded, but the transcript does not state the final vote result.

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