The Turnbull Government has nominated Rod Sims for reappointment as Chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Today I have written to the States and Territories nominating Mr Sims, and seeking their support for his reappointment, as required under section 7 of theCompetition and Consumer Act 2010 and the 1995 Conduct Code Agreement with the States and Territories. I previously consulted with the States and Territories on possible nominations for the position.
Should the support of the majority of States and Territories be received, the Government intends to recommend to the Governor-General that Mr Sims be appointed for three years, commencing 1 August 2016.
The States and Territories have 35 days in which to reply to the Government’s nomination if they wish to object. The Government cannot make a permanent appointment without the majority support of the States and Territories.
Mr Sims has taken an active role in appropriately enforcing the competition and consumer laws across a range of issues and has managed the business of the ACCC very effectively. He has a very fine understanding of competition policy and law issues, and has been heavily engaged in the ACCC’s response to the Harper Competition Policy Review.
I am pleased to put Mr Sims forward for reappointment as Chairman to the States and Territories for their consideration.