Page 644 - Week 02 - Thursday, 20 February 2020
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That, in accordance with section 12 of the Government Agencies (Campaign Advertising) Act 2009, this Assembly approves the appointment of:
(1) Professor Dennis Pearce AO as the Independent Reviewer—ACT Government Campaign Advertising for a period of three years commencing 20 March 2020; and
(2) in instances when the Independent Reviewer is unavailable to review proposed government campaign advertising, Mr Ian Govey AM as Alternate Independent Reviewer—ACT Government Campaign Advertising for a period of three years commencing 20 March 2020.
I present to the Assembly a motion to appoint Professor Dennis Pearce AO as independent reviewer. In addition, I nominate Mr Ian Govey AM to be appointed as an acting reviewer who can be called upon to review campaigns if Professor Pearce is unavailable. I would like to take the opportunity this afternoon to acknowledge Mr Derek Volker AO, who was appointed the first independent reviewer in February 2011, and more recently as acting independent reviewer. I thank him for his service and commitment.
As independent reviewer and acting reviewer, Professor Pearce and Mr Govey will review all applicable government campaigns over $40,000 to ensure that they comply with the Government Agencies (Campaign Advertising) Act 2009, which aims to prevent the misuse of public funds. Campaigns about public health and safety and routine advertising in relation to operational activities, such as tourism campaigns, are exempt from review.
This is an important role in ensuring integrity, transparency and trust in the use of public funds for government communications. The independent reviewer presents a report to the Speaker and the Assembly on a biannual basis. Professor Pearce has performed the duties of the position with the highest integrity and professionalism. His experience, diligence, thoughtful advice and responsiveness during his tenure have been invaluable.
Mr Govey has extensive legal and government administration experience, including as head of the Australian Government Solicitor and deputy secretary of the Attorney-General’s Department. Through this motion, and in accordance with the legislation, I am seeking Assembly support for these exceptionally qualified nominations so that the government can implement the necessary processes for independent approval of government campaign advertising. I present them for consideration to the Assembly.
Question put:
That the motion be agreed to.
The Assembly voted—
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