Labor Faces Criticism for Ignoring Key Job Appointment Reforms

The Albanese government is under fire for its failure to address cronyism in job appointments, following a pointed critique from Greens Senator Barbara Pocock. During a Senate estimates hearing on October 10, 2023, Pocock expressed deep frustration over the government’s decision to dismiss substantial recommendations from a review led by former public service commissioner Lynelle Briggs. The review, which has been kept under wraps for two years, highlights the ongoing practices of nepotism and political favoritism in government appointments.

Pocock’s remarks were particularly scathing, emphasizing that the government’s reluctance to enact tougher legislation to combat cronyism undermines public trust. “I think what your government is becoming is a government of gestures, a government of codes,” she told Finance Minister Katy Gallagher. This sentiment echoes broader concerns about the integrity of political appointments in Australia.

Briggs’s report, titled No Favourites, outlines alarming statistics regarding government appointments. Although only about 7% of appointments can be categorically defined as “political,” the report found that as many as 50% of selections in certain portfolios were made through “direct appointments” by ministers without competitive processes. Briggs argued that these practices have fostered an environment where “overpaid political hacks” are routinely placed in positions of power without the necessary qualifications.

To address these issues, Briggs proposed the establishment of independent panels to vet candidates, standard four-year terms for appointments, and restrictions on the number of positions one individual can hold. She also suggested implementing a six-month pause on appointments before elections to prevent “last minute bequests” from outgoing governments, which she described as “shameless.”

In response to the review, Gallagher introduced a new framework aimed at reforming the appointment process, claiming it would address 19 of the 30 recommendations. Yet, independent senator David Pocock criticized this response, arguing that the government’s reluctance to fully adopt Briggs’s recommendations only serves to reinforce public skepticism towards politicians. He stated, “Now it’s clear why the Albanese government was hiding it for two years.”

The government’s lack of comprehensive action raises questions about its commitment to reform. During a press conference, Industry Minister Tim Ayres defended the government’s approach, asserting that Labor had not engaged in nepotism. “The captain of the ship makes a difference,” Ayres remarked, contrasting current practices with those of previous administrations.

Labor’s promise to conduct a review of job appointments was made before the 2022 election, in response to accusations that the previous Coalition government had taken advantage of lax regulations. Both major parties have faced criticism for appointing individuals based more on political connections than on merit, particularly in diplomatic roles and on boards of government-owned enterprises.

Recent appointments by the Albanese government have raised eyebrows, including that of former South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill as Australia’s new high commissioner to London, and Kim Beazley as the chair of the Australian War Memorial Council. Critics argue that such choices indicate a willingness to reward political allies rather than prioritizing qualifications or public interest.

The Grattan Institute has previously highlighted that over 20% of government job appointments involve politically connected individuals. This trend extends beyond just a few isolated incidents, with the report shining a light on systemic issues within the public service. The appointment of former Defence Minister Christopher Pyne to the National Library of Australia’s council last month has also drawn scrutiny, as critics believe there are more qualified candidates for the role, especially during a time of financial strain for cultural institutions.

Another controversial appointment was that of Glenn Thompson, the national president of the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union, to the National Reconstruction Fund board, despite not being shortlisted or undergoing due diligence. This decision appeared particularly questionable given that a complete board had already been announced months earlier.

The findings of the Briggs review represent a crucial opportunity for the Albanese government to reaffirm its commitment to transparency and accountability. However, the question remains: if Labor cannot effectively tackle these fundamental issues related to cronyism, how can the public trust it to handle more complex policy matters that involve powerful interests?

The ongoing debate surrounding political appointments in Australia reflects broader concerns about governance and integrity. As the Albanese government navigates these challenges, the distinction between being a government of gestures versus one of substance is increasingly critical. The upcoming months will be pivotal in determining whether Labor can convert its rhetoric into meaningful action that restores public confidence.