Australian Government Appointments Framework

The Australian Government Appointments Framework sets out principles and guidance to strengthen and support the merit-based selection and appointment of individuals to public offices across the Commonwealth.

The Framework requires that appointments to Commonwealth public offices be made by ministers in a manner consistent with the following principles:

1. Ministers must always seek to make the best possible appointments on the basis of merit, and in the interests of good government and delivering positive outcomes for the Australian community
2. Ministers are responsible for, and should be transparent about, appointments within their portfolio(s)
3. Appointments to public office and boards should reflect the breadth of the Australian community
4. Ministers should work with, and seek advice from, their departments when determining and implementing selection processes
5. Ministers have flexibility to implement selection processes suitable for sourcing the best candidates for appointments within their portfolio(s)
6. When appropriate and proportionate, ministers should use independent assessment panels to identify suitable candidates for appointments
7. Ministers should seek to continuously strengthen the performance of boards and public bodies

The Framework applies to all appointments to Commonwealth public offices, including secretaries, other agency heads, statutory office holders and board appointments, with limited exceptions.

The Framework is scheduled to take effect from 2nd February 2026, replacing and superseding the Australian Government Merit and Transparency Policy.