Ministers should ensure that appropriate selection processes are followed when making appointments to Government boards and committees so that the best people are selected. This is consistent with the Government's commitments to increase the representation of women, people from a non-English speaking background and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

As with all publicly funded positions, there is a responsibility to make efficient, effective and accountable selection decisions that take into account the interests of the community. Consultation should take place with all relevant stakeholders. Consideration should also be given to the workload of individuals to ensure that they are not overcommitted, especially when appointing to higher profile bodies.

Candidates should be measured objectively against the requirements of the position. The Premier's Department Register, which lists details of people who are available for board and committee appointment, is available to locate a shortlist of suitable candidates. Searches are conducted based on identified criteria for the upcoming vacancy including qualifications, experience and interests.

In addition to specific skills and experience, Premier's Department has developed a set of generic criteria which board members should possess. Obviously, boards and committees vary greatly in function and significance and will require all or some of these skills at different levels.

The attached pamphlet setting out these criteria should be distributed to all agencies in your portfolio to remind those involved in selecting candidates of the Government's commitments to merit and equity. Stakeholder organisations nominate one third of all candidates for board membership and it is essential that they be kept informed of the Government's commitments also. Agencies should distribute the pamphlet to these organisations at liaison meetings and through mail-outs. Multiple copies may be obtained from Premier's Department at the contacts below.

Ministers may choose to engage a consultant when a suitable person has not been found. Any brief to consultants should set out the identified criteria for the position, as well as the Government's commitments and be in accordance with the Guidelines for the Engagement and Use of Consultants.

Bob Carr
Premier