text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/5

On 7 July 2023, the Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme delivered its Report to the Governor-General. It was tabled in the Australian Parliament the same day.

In the words of Commissioner Holmes AC SC, the Royal Commission "served the purpose of bringing into the open an extraordinary saga, illustrating a myriad of ways that things can go wrong through venality, incompetence and cowardice". The Commission produced 56 valuable recommendations, which are principally directed at strengthening the Australian Public Service and capability of oversight agencies. This document provides the Government's response to those recommendations.

However, before turning to the recommendations, it is important to place the Government's response in its proper context.

While important, the recommendations are not–in and of themselves–enough to prevent another Robodebt Scheme. As Commissioner Holmes notes in the Preface to the Report, "whether a public service can be developed with sufficient robustness to ensure that something of the like of the Robodebt scheme could not occur again will depend on the will of the government of the day, because culture is set from the top down".

The Government agrees.

The former government's neglect of, and at times open hostility towards, our public institutions was arguably unprecedented. Examples abound. The debasement of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, the defunding of the Administrative Review Council and the attempted abolition of the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner and the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor. The contempt for journalists, public interest reporting and whistleblowers. The devaluing of the Australian Public Service. The list goes on and on.

Since the 2022 Federal Election, the Albanese Government has embarked on a series of reforms to restore the public's trust and faith in government and its institutions–reforms that put people at the centre and promote integrity. This work includes:

 * The establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) with extensive powers to investigate Commonwealth public officials, Ministers, their staff, and any person that may adversely affect how a public official carries out their official duties honestly and impartially.


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/194

 "". Summer Fashions Latest Style 1842 Engraved for the Lady's World of Fashion

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/6

 *The APS Reform agenda–putting strong foundations in place for a world-class and future fit Australian Public Service that delivers better outcomes for the community and contributes to a fairer and more inclusive Australia.
 * The Prime Minister has put in place a robust Code of Conduct which requires Ministers to act with due regard for integrity and legality, fairness, accountability, responsibility and the public interest; and underscores that Ministers are accountable for the exercise of their powers and functions to the Parliament and to the public.
 * Strengthening Australia's public sector whistleblowing framework and achieving strong, effective and accessible whistleblower protections in two stages (with the first stage of reform commencing from 1 July 2023).
 * The abolition and replacement of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal–a landmark reform that will lead to the creation of a new system of administrative review that is user-focussed, efficient, accessible and fair.

In addition, in response to recommendations of the Royal Commission, the Government is committed to:
 * bringing forward legislative reforms to enhance the powers of the Commonwealth Ombudsman and impose statutory obligations on officials responding to Commonwealth Ombudsman investigations, and
 * reinstating the Administrative Review Council to support ongoing improvements to administrative decision-making across government.

'''A Government committed to a strong social security safety net - Re-humanisingnet – re-humanising [sic] the delivery of government paymentspayments. [sic]'''

In the Royal Commission Report, Commissioner Holmes referred to the way in which Australians receiving income support payments have been stigmatised in recent years, explaining that they have been often made to feel "shame, oppression, isolation, and dehumanisation". By no means the only example, but perhaps the most infamous, occurred in December 2016 as the Robodebt scheme was being ramped up, when the then-Minister for Human Services Alan Tudge said on national television:

"We will find you, we will track you down, and you will have to repay those debts, and you may end up in prison."

The Royal Commission called for politicians to lead a change in attitudes to people receiving income support payments, including abandoning the simple narrative of the taxpayer versus


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/39

 ""


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/77

 ""

Engraved by J.Sartain

Painted by &Jone


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/7

 the welfare recipient. The Commissioner remarked that the evidence before the Commission was that fraud in the system was miniscule, "but that is not the impression one would get from what ministers responsible for social security payments have said over the years".

The social security system is a vital safety net, providing both income support and access to services for Australians who need it. Many Australians need this support at different times in their lives, for many different reasons. There is no shame in this.

The social security system safety net is also fundamental to our economy. The system allows Australians to get on with their lives in the understanding that support is available if circumstances change. This empowers people and helps build prosperity.

The Government is committed to putting people back at the centre of program design and service delivery. The Department of Social Services and Services Australia are investing in more training for officials and will seek regular feedback on service and program delivery from frontline staff and the community.

The Government will continue to implement administrative changes to improve payment accuracy and reduce the number of overpayments. The Government will also improve social security debt arrangements to ensure that debt raising and recovery practices are timely, fair and conducted with empathy and respect.

The deployment and adoption of safe and responsible automation and artificial intelligence presents significant opportunities for Australia to improve economic and social outcomes. Across society, the considered and ethical use of technology can help to deliver better services to the community, including government services.

The Government will continue to implement the Digital Service Standard, which sets out best practice principles for the inclusive, adaptable and ethical design and delivery of government services. The Standard includes criteria that promote a human-centred and inclusive approach to design.

In response to the Commission's recommendations, the Government will also consider opportunities to progress legislative reforms to ensure that government decisions involving automation are made under a consistent legal framework which is clear and transparent, while harnessing the speed, cost and efficiency benefits of technological advances in artificial intelligence and automation. The Government has committed to developing a comprehensive and consistent legal framework to support automated decision-making, consistent with the principles recommended by the Royal Commission.

The Government also remains committed to ensuring Australians have greater control over their own personal information. In the Government response to the Privacy Act Review the Government has committed to reforms that will provide stronger privacy protections while encouraging digital innovation.


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/80

 ""


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/115

THE INDIAN BRIDE


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/8

 Government Response to Recommendations

The Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme made 56 recommendations and one closing observation.

In relation to the Commissioner's closing observation, the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Cth) (FOI Act) promotes accountability in government decision-making by providing the community with access to government documents, subject to some exemptions. The confidentiality of Cabinet documents is one of those exemptions.

The Australian Government believes that it is critical that the Cabinet, the key decision-making body of Government, is comprehensively informed in its deliberations. To achieve this, the Cabinet must have the benefit of frank and fearless advice from Ministers and senior public servants. The decisions taken by the Cabinet are collective. As set out in the Cabinet Handbook:

The principle of collective responsibility requires that ministers should be able to express their views frankly in Cabinet meetings in the expectation that they can argue freely in private while maintaining a united front in public when decisions have been reached. This in turn requires that opinions expressed in the Cabinet and Cabinet Committees, including in documents and any correspondence, are treated as confidential.

For these reasons, the Government does not consider that section 34 of the FOI Act should be repealed.

In relation to the Commissioner's recommendations, the Australian Government accepts or accepts in principle all 56 recommendations. Where a recommendation has been accepted in principle, the Government is committed to achieve the objective of the recommendation but has either identified an alternative means of doing so, or considers that further consideration is needed.


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/118


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/191


text:
Page:Complete Works of Count Tolstoy - 13.djvu/340

 show, in spite of the opinion of certain evil-thinking men, that the division of the church into the two abovementioned classes has its origin with the Saviour himself. Unquestionably the Lord himself founded in his church a special order of men, who formed the hierarchy, and empowered those men, and only those, to make use of those means which he gave to the church for its purposes, that is, he empowered them to be teachers, ministers of the sacraments, and spiritual guides, and in no way left it indiscriminately to all the believers, having, on the contrary, enjoined them to obey the pastors.” (p. 211.)

“The Protestants, who do not acknowledge that Christ established in the church a special priesthood, or hierarchy, affirm that all the believers, by force of the sacrament of the baptism, are equally priests of the most high God; but as it is impossible for all to perform the duties of priesthood, the believers choose from their own midst special men as their representatives, whom they clothe in the rights of priesthood.”

In the above quotation it says that a large part of Christendom, the Protestants, do not recognize the hierarchy. This proof is very important, for the whole. teaching of the church has been reduced to the doctrine about the hierarchy. It turns out that Christians who are not worse or more stupid than we directly deny according to Scripture what we assert, that is, the hierarchy. Here is the way the Theology proves the establishment of the hierarchy by God. I cite the following places from the Theology, which are supposed to prove the establishment of the hierarchy by Christ. I quote every one of them, not in order to refute them, for any one who reads them will see how useless that is, but in order to present all the proofs of the church in favour of the hierarchy.

“(1) As we read the Gospel, which contains in itself the history of the life and words of our Saviour, we see:


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/153


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/195


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/227


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/226


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/42

 Wedding Costumes Scretase Style ir the Ladys World of Fashion.


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/1


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/5

Morning & Evening Dress The Newest Fashious 1842


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/228


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/229


text: Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/452


text:
Page:Peterson's Magazine 1842, Volume I.pdf/225

ENGRAVED BY J. SARTAIN

PRINTED BY ELANDSEER.

THE PET FAWN.

Fagrand Expressly for the Lady's World of Fr. home


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/9

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance of designing policies and government services that focus on the needs of recipients. This includes making services as accessible as possible and delivering them in a way that meets the needs of individuals and the community.

The Government will continue to improve the delivery of services for Australians. When considering a change to a service, before policy, investment and service delivery decisions are made, the Government will gather an evidence-based understanding of the needs of recipients, which is based on the views of recipients, and explore how the proposed changes may impact recipients. The Department of Social Services and Services Australia will work together to ensure customer and staff feedback is considered in the design of policy and processes.

Priority 2 of the Government's Australian Public Sector Reform agenda is to put people and business at the centre of policy and services. In partnership with the broader APS and government services users, Services Australia has developed a whole of service vision for user-centred service excellence: "reliable and accessible services when and how you need them". The vision supports coherent leadership in the design and delivery of government programs, services and payments; service alignment; and shared execution. It is intended to complement the service delivery principles, standards and charters of individual departments and agencies.


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/21


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/10

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government supports the need for clear documentation that specifies the circumstances when an individual may be excluded from a compliance process.

Services Australia will produce clear documentation for any exclusion criteria when any cohort of recipients is intended to be excluded from compliance or debt related activities. This includes recording any associated exclusions within any compliance activity business process specifications and compliance program documents.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government agrees that individual circumstances that might impact on an individual's capacity to engage with government services, or reviews of payments and services, should be taken into account during service delivery and customer engagements.

Disclosure of individual circumstances is voluntary in most cases, particularly when this detail may not be required to establish an entitlement to a payment or service. Noting this, in some circumstances it may not be possible for delivery agencies to proactively identify all circumstances that might affect a person's ability to engage with a compliance activity.

In recognition, Services Australia has developed internal guidance to support staff to engage with customers, build the agency's capability to identify customers experiencing vulnerability, and support customers to safely disclose their circumstances and access appropriate information, services and support. Issued in July 2021, the 'Our vulnerability strategy' is being implemented across Services Australia.


text:
Page:The Recluse by W Paul Cook.djvu/81

And I am dead. Six feet deep I lie, And I am dead. I can not move an eye; I can not move a thigh; I can not even sigh, For I am dead. Set, fixed, immovable my head; Set, fixed, immovable my bed; Set, fixed, immovable myself, now wed To coffin, earth, the dead. All the rottenness, I dread; All the flesh on which fat worms have fed; All the slime and mould that slowly spread About me, who am dead. Nevermore shall I hear sound In my tomb beneath the ground, In my grave beneath my mound. Six feet deep my corpse lies, drowned In dissolution’s rot. Around, Eternal night, and earth damp, black, and cold That presses on my grave and me, all rolled In my own decomposition. Thick, white worms have lolled Their dripping tongues from my soft flesh that, old And spoiling, lured them. But I could not squirm When I felt through me spread the germ Of worm that multiplied on worm Until my dead flesh stirred. I only lay, Sick, still, and weary, while they ate their way; I only sighed to feel them play And wriggle through my gray Corruption. Six feet deep I lie in my last sleep; Six feet deep. I feel the worms that creep, creep, creep, I feel the worms that leap In ecstacy to reap The harvest, and to revel deep In dark liquescence. Mocking maggots peep At me and slyly chuckle while they keep Their festful riot in my melting heap.

I now have ceased to bloat; Worms now have ceased to gloat, Or in my dead flesh foul to float, Forevermore. Stained is the coffin floor

title: Page:The Recluse by W Paul Cook.djvu/81


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/27


text:
Page:The Recluse by W Paul Cook.djvu/82

 Forevermore. My corpse was once a festering sore, And rotten in each swelling pore, And rotten to the very core, But now that time is gone of yore Forevermore. My body will not pour A noisome pool as once before. My bones are hoar Forevermore. Dark, dank, cold, dead, Silent, still, old, dead; Dead, dead, Forever dead. Dead, dead, Forever dead. Flesh? Fled. Forever fled. Body? Spread. Forever spread. Soul? Dead. Forever dead. Forever dead, dead, dead.

title: Page:The Recluse by W Paul Cook.djvu/82


text: The Recluse (Cook)/In the Grave

title: The Recluse (Cook)/In the Grave


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/28


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/29


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/11

 Where an individual discloses a vulnerability, this will inform the way the agency engages with the individual in the delivery of programs and services, including connecting the customer with any additional support services. To support this, information about circumstances affecting a recipient's capacity to engage is recorded on customer records. This information is also accessible to service delivery partners.

Services Australia will continue to engage with customers in a way that supports proper consideration of individual circumstances, and to support customers to disclose any vulnerabilities impacting them.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

Operational guidance material and the 'Our vulnerability strategy' support Services Australia service officers to identify when customers' circumstances should be recorded and updated on a customer's record. This includes when vulnerabilities are identified, require updates due to a change in the customer's circumstances, or are no longer impacting the customer.

Records held by Services Australia contain notes that alert staff to circumstances where a recipient is experiencing difficulties that might affect their ability to meet mutual obligation requirements. Where an individual discloses a vulnerability, staff will use this knowledge to tailor the discussion and interaction, including the promotion of appropriate programs and services, and connect the customer to specialist supports and/or referrals to local service providers. To support this, information about circumstances affecting a person's capacity to engage in mutual obligation requirements is recorded on customer files.

Notes are generally applied on the basis of information provided by individuals through their engagement with the agency. A record of a person's circumstances is maintained on their customer file and accessible if they have future interactions with the agency.


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/30


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/12

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance of considering an individual's capacity to engage with government services and any reviews of their circumstances that might impact eligibility for a payment or services.

Services Australia uses established forums to support engagements with advocacy groups including the National Multicultural Advisory Group, Disability Peak Bodies, Stakeholder Consultative Group and the Civil Society Advisory Group. Engagements through these forums have informed changes to the agency's service delivery and support services.

Services Australia will continue to seek advice and input from civil society stakeholders to improve service delivery, particularly where changes are being made and there are opportunities for co-design.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the important role advocates play in the administration of government services and undertakes regular engagements with peak advocacy groups.

Services Australia will actively identify opportunities to engage with advocacy groups. To support engagement between Services Australia and advocacy groups, the agency has a number of established forums through which advocacy groups can engage directly with the agency. These forums provide a channel for advocacy groups to raise concerns and provide feedback to the agency.

Services Australia will pilot an 'advocates' channel for legal advocates. This pilot will help inform the suitability of channels for advocacy groups acting on behalf of vulnerable customers, and to inform a longer-term scalable solution. The pilot will be progressed in conjunction with Economic Justice Australia (EJA).


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/31


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/13

The Government accepts in principle this recommendation.

Government agencies provide vital services and information for the community. Service design should respond to community need, and the methods of service delivery should be as effective and efficient as possible.

In partnership with the broader APS and government services users, Services Australia has developed a whole of service vision for user-centred service excellence: "reliable and accessible services when and how you need them". This vision forms part of Priority 2 of the Government's Australian Public Sector Reform agenda, and puts people and business at the centre of policy and services. The vision supports coherent leadership in the design and delivery of government programs, services and payments; service alignment; and shared execution. It is intended to complement the service delivery principles, standards and charters of individual departments and agencies.

The Australian Public Sector Reform Office and Services Australia are also partnering to develop whole-of-government Service Design Standards to support agencies to design, administer and improve new and existing services and payments. The Standards will be evidence-based and informed by the needs and expectations of the Australian community.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government will consult with peak advocacy groups when implementing modifications to the social security system.

Building and expanding on existing engagement mechanisms, including with organisations like Economic Justice Australia and the Australian Council of Social Service, the Department of Social Services and Services Australia will engage with peak advocacy bodies to determine the most effective way to seek their views on the design and implementation of projects where there are likely to be implications for users of the social security system.


text:
Page:The Crowne of all Homers Workes - Chapman (1624).djvu/144

133


text:
Page:The Crowne of all Homers Workes - Chapman (1624).djvu/145

134


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/14

The Government accepts this recommendation.

Legal assistance plays a vital role in ensuring more equal access to the justice system which is fundamental to our democratic society and the rule of law. Not only does legal assistance facilitate improved outcomes for individuals, it also generates broader benefits to society.

The independent review of the National Legal Assistance Partnership 2020–25 (NLAP) commenced in June 2023. The Terms of Reference for the review are broad, and require the review to evaluate whether the objectives, outcomes and outputs of the NLAP have been achieved.

The Issues Paper published by the independent reviewer states that recommendation 12.4 is within the scope of the Terms of Reference, and will be considered as part of the review. The findings and recommendations of the review will inform future funding arrangements for legal assistance.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government supports undertaking consultation with front-line staff when designing and implementing new programs, noting their expertise in engaging with customers. Services Australia will ensure the experiences of front-line staff are sought and fed into design practice and service delivery policy.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/15

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government commits to ensuring agencies have processes in place to gather feedback from front-line staff, noting their first-hand experiences in engaging with the community.

Services Australia has a variety of mechanisms in place for staff to provide feedback, given the variability of services provided by the agency. Services Australia is committed to supporting staff input into the delivery of programs, both specific and systemic delivery considerations, and insights on emerging issues for policy design and program delivery.

The Government accepts in principle this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance of designing services to meet the needs of individuals, particularly vulnerable recipients. This includes making services as accessible as possible, including for individuals located in remote areas, through the preferred channel of the individual.

The Australian Public Sector Reform Office and Services Australia are partnering to develop whole-of-government service delivery attributes and Service Design Standards to support agencies to design and administer new and existing services and payments. The Standards will be evidence-based and informed by the needs and expectations of the Australian community.

The Government recognises the importance of having face-to-face services available to Australians when required. Services Australia has been transforming its face-to-face services since 2019–20. Improvements have been made to the service environment including in person and online. Services Australia will continue to adopt a customer-centred approach. The ongoing efforts to transform service delivery will be directed toward better assisting customers to navigate services tailored to their needs, including through identifying opportunities to engage and collaborate with government service delivery partners and support more customers to access government services from a single location.


text:
Page:The Crowne of all Homers Workes - Chapman (1624).djvu/146

135


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/16

The Government accepts in principle this recommendation.

The Government recognises the important role social workers play in supporting our community, and connecting Australians with services that support their needs.

The Services Australia Social Work Servicing Strategy (2021–2025) outlines how the agency is transforming the way it delivers social work services. The Strategy was developed in consultation with Services Australia social workers, and draws on their expertise and experience. The vision identified in the Strategy is to ensure "a progressive social work service committed to social justice and helping individuals, families and communities so people can get on with their lives" consistent with the agency's Master Plan, and to provide world-class services to citizens through increased social worker accessibility.

To maximise access to social work support for customers and staff, Services Australia is also exploring additional delivery methods to support connections with customers and continues to respond to customer needs through their preferred method of contact.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

In providing advice to Cabinet, Ministers, departments and agencies should indicate whether a new policy proposal will require legislative change in order for it to be lawfully implemented, in addition to giving advice on whether legislation is required to authorise expenditure. In circumstances where it has not been possible to determine whether legislative change is required, this should also be clearly stated. Relevant Cabinet procedures will be updated to reflect this.

This recommendation will be implemented by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Department of Finance and the Treasury, in consultation with the Attorney-General's Department.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/17

The Government accepts in principle this recommendation.

The Government agrees that Cabinet should be clearly informed of identifiable legal issues associated with the implementation of new policy proposals. The Government considers that clear, concise and succinct summaries of legal issues are likely to be of greater assistance to entities and Ministers than copies of entire legal advices. Relevant Cabinet procedures will be updated to reflect this.

This recommendation will be implemented by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Department of Finance and the Treasury, in consultation with the Attorney-General's Department.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

Sponsoring Ministers and entities are responsible for ensuring that they present clear information on what is required to implement a new policy proposal. Where legal advice is provided on a new policy proposal, Cabinet should receive complete and accurate information, particularly regarding whether or not the Australian Government Solicitor has reviewed and agreed with any legal advice on whether legislative change is required. Relevant Cabinet procedures will be updated to reflect this.

This recommendation will be implemented by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Department of Finance and the Treasury, in consultation with the Attorney-General's Department.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/18

The Government accepts this recommendation.

Cabinet should receive clear and accurate advice on new policy proposals, to ensure it fully understands associated legal issues and risks. Relevant Cabinet procedures will be updated to make it clear what legal advice has been obtained, in respect of what risks, and by whom it was provided. The updates will provide clearer information on legislative authority issues relating to spending, and on legal issues relating to other aspects of the proposal.

This recommendation will be implemented by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, in consultation with the Department of Finance, the Treasury and the Attorney-General's Department.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

All Ministers, departments and agencies are expected and required to comply with the rules outlined in the Cabinet Handbook and the Budget Process Operational Rules when developing new policy proposals and measures with financial implications.

The Department of Social Services and Services Australia will ensure budget initiatives are progressed in consultation with the Department of Finance, and in compliance with the Budget Process Operational Rules. Data sources will be identified, and assumptions will be required to be documented and provided in a transparent manner.

The Digital Transformation Agency is also assisting agencies articulate and measure the benefits of investment in technology, including as they relate to technology-enabled compliance measures.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/19

The Government accepts this recommendation.

All Ministers, departments and agencies are expected and required to comply with the rules outlined within the Cabinet Handbook and the Budget Process Operational Rules when developing new policy proposals and measures with financial implications.

The Department of Social Services and Services Australia will ensure budget initiatives are progressed in consultation with the Department of Finance, and in compliance with the Budget Process Operational Rules. Data sources will be identified, and assumptions and inputs will be provided for compliance measures. These will be required to be documented and provided in a transparent manner.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The collection, use, storage and disclosure of personal information is fundamental to the effective administration of government agencies and departments. It is therefore critical the public have trust and confidence that agencies and departments are adhering to the robust legislative frameworks in place which protect personal privacy.

Government agencies and departments have obligations to protect an individual's information under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), the Australian Privacy Principles and relevant guidelines issued by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. Recognising the importance the protection of personal information has in the administration of the tax and social security systems, the Taxation Administration Act 1953 (Cth) and Social Security (Administration) Act 1999 (Cth) also contain provisions that protect an individual's information.

The Australian Taxation Office and Services Australia have obtained independent, external legal advice in respect of the Pay As You Go (PAYG) and Single Touch Payroll (STP) data exchange programs, which confirm that both agencies are complying with the required legislative frameworks governing each aspect of the data exchange, specifically, the confidentiality and Tax File Number (TFN) provisions in the Taxation Administration Act 1953, the confidentiality provisions of the Social Security (Administration) Act 1999, and the Privacy Act 1988.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/20

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance governance frameworks have in providing an effective level of oversight of joint programs operating between government agencies. These frameworks provide agencies with appropriate issues resolution pathways, clearly articulate the objectives of the arrangement and outline the expectations and responsibilities of each party.

The Australian Taxation Office and Services Australia are reviewing all existing data exchanges operating between the agencies to ensure all legal and ethical requirements are met, and that the governance arrangements and supporting framework documentation, including Memoranda of Understanding and joint forum terms of reference, are in place and accurately reflect the processes and procedures of the exchange.

The Australian Taxation Office and Services Australia will review new and existing data sharing arrangements in line with guidance material issued by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner and the Office of the National Data Commissioner, and will consult with these oversight bodies where required.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/21

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The safe and responsible development and deployment of automated decision-making provides important opportunities to deliver timely and efficient services for Australians. The Government will consider opportunities for legislative reform to introduce a consistent legal framework in which automation in government services can operate ethically, without bias and with appropriate safeguards, which will include consideration of:

 * review pathways for those affected by decisions, and
 * transparency about the use of automated decision-making, and how such decision-making processes operate, for persons affected by decisions and to enable independent scrutiny.

The reforms agreed to in the Government response to the Privacy Act Review Report, released 28 September 2023, will also increase the transparency and integrity of decisions made using automated decision-making that uses personal information. Privacy policies will be required to set out the types of personal information used in automated decision-making systems that have a legal or similarly significant effect on an individual's rights. There will also be a right for individuals to request meaningful information about how these decisions are made.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/22

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government agrees that ethical considerations and principles of administrative law must be taken into account in the design of automated decision-making processes and there should be proper oversight of these arrangements.

The Government will ensure there is appropriate oversight of the use of automation in service delivery. This includes oversight of technical aspects to identify potential bias and ensure the use of automated decision-making or artificial intelligence is ethical and in accordance with legislative protections. In implementing this recommendation, the Government will consider establishing a body, or expanding the functions of an existing body, with the power to monitor and audit automated decision-making processes.

The Government will examine existing regulatory frameworks that provide safeguards for artificial intelligence and automated decision-making to ensure a consistent legal, ethical and governance framework in which automation in government services can operate with appropriate safeguards.

The Government commits to ensuring new technologies are integrated in a safe and responsible manner. The Government's Data and Digital Government Strategy includes a Government commitment to empower departments and agencies to safely engage with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and ensure they remain transparent about how these technologies are used in the functioning of government and the delivery of government programs, payments and services. Governance of automated decision-making will also be further considered as part of current work to develop appropriate whole-of-government assurance and governance of artificial intelligence.


text: Index:How Henry Ford is regarded in Brazil (1926).djvu


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/24

 20 {|
 * 4. || (Manuscript) Account of Russia during the commencement of the Reign of the Emperor Paul, Drawn up by the Rev. L. K. Pitt, Chaplain to the Factory of St. Petersburg, and a near Relative of William Pitt.
 * }

Having entered into ample considerations on the Emperor Paul's acts and extravagances, the Rev. Mr. Pitt continues as follows:

"When these considerations are impressed on the mind, the nature of the late secession from the coalition, and of the incalculable indignities offered to the Government of Great Britain, can alone be fairly estimated. … United, these nations might almost brave the united world; divided,


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/25

 Rh the strength and importance of each is impaired. England has reason to regret with Russia that the imperial sceptre should be thus inconsistently wielded, but it is the sovereign of Russia alone who divides the Empires."

The reverend gentleman concludes his account by the words:


text: Page:How Henry Ford is regarded in Brazil (1926).djvu/1


text: Page:How Henry Ford is regarded in Brazil (1926).djvu/2


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/26

 22

documents published in the first chapter extend from the reign of the Empress Ann to the commencement of the reign of the Emperor Paul, thus encompassing the greater part of the 18th century. At the end of that century it had become, as stated by the Rev. Mr. Pitt, the openly professed and orthodox dogma of English diplomacy, "that the ties which bind Great Britain to the Russian Empire are formed by nature, and inviolable."

In perusing these documents, there is something that startles us even more than their contents—viz., their form. All these letters are "confidential," "private," "secret," "most secret"; but in spite of secrecy, privacy, and confidence, the English statesmen converse among each other about Russia and her rulers in a tone of awful reserve, abject servility, and cynical submission, which would strike us even in the public despatches of Russian statesmen. To conceal intrigues against foreign nations secrecy is recurred to by Russian diplomatists. The same method is adopted by English diplomatists freely to express their devotion to a foreign Court. The secret despatches of Russian diplomatists are fumigated with some equivocal perfume. It is one part the fumée de fausseté, as the Duke of St. Simon has it, and the other part that coquettish display of one's own superiority and cunning which stamps upon the reports of the French Secret Police their indelible character. Even the master despatches of Pozzo di Borgo are tainted with this common blot of the litérature de mauvais lieu. In this point the English secret despatches prove much superior. They do not affect superiority but silliness. For instance, can there be anything more silly than Mr. Rondeau informing Horace Walpole that he has betrayed to the Russian


text: Page:How Henry Ford is regarded in Brazil (1926).djvu/3


text: Page:How Henry Ford is regarded in Brazil (1926).djvu/4


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/27

 Rh Minister the letters addressed by the Turkish Grand Vizier to the King of England, but that he had told "at the same time those gentlemen that as there were several hard reflections on the Russian Court he should not have communicated them, if they had not been so anxious to see them," and then told their excellencies not to tell the Porte that they had seen them (those letters)! At first view the infamy of the act is drowned in the silliness of the man. Or, take Sir George Macartney. Can there be anything more silly than his happiness that Russia seemed "reasonable" enough not to expect that England "should pay the "; for Russia's "choosing to take the lead at Stockholm"; or his "flattering himself" that he had "persuaded the Russian Court" not to be so "unreasonable" as to ask from England, in a time of peace, subsidies for a time of war against Turkey (then the ally of England); or his warning the Earl of Sandwich "not to mention" to the Russian Ambassador at London the secrets mentioned to himself by the Russian Chancellor at St. Petersburg? Or can there be anything more silly than Sir James Harris confidentially whispering into the ear of Lord Grantham that Catherine II. was devoid of "judgment, precision of idea, reflection, and l'esprit de combinaison"?

On the other hand, take the cool impudence with which Sir George Macartney informs his minister that because the Swedes were extremely jealous of, and mortified at, their dependence on Russia, England was directed by the Court of St. Petersburg to do its work at Stockholm, under the British colours of liberty and independence! Or Sir James Harris advising England to surrender to Russia Minorca and the right of search, and the monopoly of mediation in the affairs of the world—not in order to gain any material advantage, or even a formal engagement on the part of Russia, but only "a strong glow of friendship" from the Empress, and the transfer to France of her "ill humour."


text:
Page:How Henry Ford is regarded in Brazil (1926).djvu/5

 Henry Ford.

HEN some day in the future another Carlyle re-writes “Heroes and Hero-Worship”, by the side of Moses, of Cromwell, of Odin will stand Henry Ford, the Hero of Work. For if there is in this world a Hero of work, a revealer of the possibilities of work as a remedy for all the ills that no work, bad work and the iniquitous organization of work have created, that man is Henry Ford. A great man of the heroic Carlylian type who is not just a glorified clothes-rack hung for the moment with the glittering insignia of fame (in most cases La Fontaine’s “L’Ane portant les Reliques”) but a man who effects or sows the good seed of beneficent social transformations. One was Louis XIV, called the “Great”; but another was Gutenberg, the Greater.

And who is there in the modern world besides Henry Ford fecundating human progress with the pollen that will make to-morrow better than to-day and yesterday?

Henry Ford’s worth does not lie in the fact that he is the richest man of all time; this would only 3


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/28

 24 The secret Russian despatches proceed on the very plain line that Russia knows herself to have no common interests whatever with other nations, but that every nation must be persuaded separately to have common interests with Russia to the exclusion of every other nation. The English despatches, on the contrary, never dare so much as hint that Russia has common interests with England, but only endeavour to convince England that she has Russian interests. The English diplomatists themselves tell us that this was the single argument they pleaded, when placed face to face with Russian potentates.

If the English despatches we have laid before the public were addressed to private friends, they would only brand with infamy the ambassadors who wrote them. Secretly addressed as they are to the British Government itself, they nail it for ever to the pillory of history; and, instinctively, this seems to have been felt, even by Whig writers, because none has dared to publish them.

The question naturally arises from which epoch this Russian character of English diplomacy, become traditionary in the course of the 18th century, does date its origin. To clear up this point we must go back to the time of Peter the Great, which, consequently, will form the principal subject of our researches. We propose to enter upon this task by reprinting some English pamphlets, written at the time of Peter I., and which have either escaped the attention of modern historians, or appeared to them to merit none. However, they will suffice for refuting the prejudice common to Continental and English writers, that the designs of Russia were not understood or suspected in England until at a later, and too late, epoch; that the diplomatic relations between England and Russia were but the natural offspring of the mutual material interests of the two countries; and that, therefore, in accusing the British statesmen of the 18th century of Russianism we should commit an unpardonable hysteron-proteron. If we have shown by the English despatches that, at the time of the Empress Ann, England already betrayed her own allies to Russia, it will be seen from the pamphlets we are now


text:
Page:Lorna Doone - a romance of Exmoor (IA lornadooneromanc691blac).pdf/63

 all would come to the live one in spite of any testament.

One of the joint-owners was Sir Ensor Doone, a gentleman of brisk intellect; and the other owner was his cousin, the Earl of Lorne and Dykemont.

Lord Lorne was some years the elder of his cousin Ensor Doone, and was making suit to gain severance of the cumbersome joint-tenancy by any fair apportionment, when suddenly this blow fell on them by wiles and woman's meddling; and instead of dividing the land, they were divided from it.

The nobleman was still well-to-do, though crippled in his expenditure; but as for the cousin, he was left a beggar, with many to beg from him. He thought that the other had wronged him, and that all the trouble of law befell through his unjust petition. Many friends advised him to make interest at Court; for, having done no harm whatever, and being a good Catholic, which Lord Lorne was not, he would be sure to find hearing there, and probably some favour. But he, like a very hot-brained man, although he had long been married to the daughter of his cousin (whom he liked none the more for that), would have nothing to say to any attempt at making a patch of it, but drove away with his wife and sons, and the relics of his money, swearing hard at everybody. In this he may have been quite wrong; probably, perhaps he was so; but I am not convinced at all but what most of us would have done the same.

Some say that, in the bitterness of that wrong and


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/29

 Rh about to reprint that, even before the epoch of Ann, at the very epoch of Russian ascendency in Europe, springing up at the time of Peter I., the plans of Russia were understood, and the connivance of British statesmen at these plans was denounced by English writers.

The first pamphlet we lay before the public is called The Northern Crisis. It was printed in London in 1716, and relates the intended Dano-Anglo-Russian invasion of Skana (Schonen).

During the year 1715 a northern alliance for the partition, not of Sweden proper, but of what we may call the Swedish Empire, had been concluded between Russia, Denmark, Poland, Prussia, and Hanover. That partition forms the first grand act of modern diplomacy—the logical premiss to the partition of Poland. The partition treaties relating to Spain have engrossed the interest of posterity because they were the forerunners of the War of Succession, and the partition of Poland drew even a larger audience because its last act was played upon a contemporary stage. However, it cannot be denied that it was the partition of the Swedish Empire which inaugurated the modern era of international policy. The partition treaty not even pretended to have a pretext, save the misfortune of its intended victim. For the first time in Europe the violation of all treaties was not only made, but proclaimed the common basis of a new treaty. Poland herself, in the drag of Russia, and personated by that commonplace of immorality, Augustus II., Elector of Saxony and King of Poland, was pushed into the foreground of the conspiracy, thus signing her own death-warrant, and not even enjoying the privilege reserved by Polyphemus—to Odysseus to be last eaten. Charles XII. predicted her fate in the manifesto flung against King Augustus and the Czar, from his voluntary exile at Bender. The manifesto is dated January 28, 1711.

The participation in this partition treaty threw England within the orbit of Russia, towards whom, since the days of the "Glorious Revolution," she had more and more gravitated. George I., as King of England, was bound to a defensive alliance with Sweden by the treaty of 1700. Not


text:
Page:Lorna Doone - a romance of Exmoor (IA lornadooneromanc691blac).pdf/64

 outrage, he slew a gentleman of the Court, whom he supposed to have borne a hand in the plundering of his fortunes. Others say that he bearded King Charles the First himself, in a manner beyond forgiveness. One thing, at any rate, is sure—Sir Ensor was attainted, and made a felon outlaw, through some violent deed ensuing upon his dispossession.

He had searched in many quarters for somebody to help him, and with good warrant for hoping it, inasmuch as he, in his lucky days, had been open-handed and cousinly to all who begged advice of him. But now all these provided him with plenty of good advice indeed, and great assurance of feeling, but not a movement of leg, or lip, or purse-string in his favour. All good people of either persuasion, royalty or commonalty, knowing his kitchen-range to be cold, no Longer would play turnspit. And this, it may be, seared his heart more than the loss of land and fame.

In great despair at last, he resolved to settle in some outlandish part, where none could be found to know him; and so, in an evil day for us, he came to the West of England. Not that our part of the world is at all outlandish, according to my view of it (for I never found a better one), but that it was known to be rugged, and large, and desolate. And here, when he had discovered a place which seemed almost to be made for him, so withdrawn, so self-defended, and uneasy of access, some of the country-folk around brought him little offerings—a side of bacon, a keg of cider, hung mutton, or a brisket of venison; so that


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/30

 26 only as King of England, but as Elector of Hanover, he was one of the guarantees, and even of the direct parties to the treaty of Travendal, which secured to Sweden what the partition treaty intended stripping her of. Even his German electoral dignity he partly owed to that treaty. However, as Elector of Hanover he declared war against Sweden, which he waged as King of England.

In 1715 the confederates had divested Sweden of her German provinces, and to effect that end introduced the Muscovite on the German soil. In 1716 they agreed to invade Sweden Proper—to attempt an armed descent upon Schonen—the southern extremity of Sweden now constituting the districts of Malmoe and Christianstadt. Consequently Peter of Russia brought with him from Germany a Muscovite army, which was scattered over Zealand, thence to be conveyed to Schonen, under the protection of the English and Dutch fleets sent into the Baltic, on the false pretext of protecting trade and navigation. Already in 1715, when Charles XII. was besieged in Stralsund, eight English men-of-war, lent by England to Hanover, and by Hanover to Denmark, had openly reinforced the Danish navy, and even hoisted the Danish flag. In 1716 the British navy was commanded by his Czarish Majesty in person.

Everything being ready for the invasion of Schonen, there arose a difficulty from a side where it was least expected. Although the treaty stipulated only for 30,000 Muscovites, Peter, in his magnanimity, had landed 40,000 on Zealand; but now that he was to send them on the errand to Schonen, he all at once discovered that out of the 40,000 he could spare but 15,000. This declaration not only paralysed the military plan of the confederates, it seemed to threaten the security of Denmark and of Frederick IV., its king, as great part of the Muscovite army, supported by the Russian fleet, occupied Copenhagen. One of the generals of Frederick proposed suddenly to fall with the Danish cavalry upon the Muscovites and to exterminate them, while the English men-of-war should burn the Russian fleet. Averse to any perfidy which required some greatness of will, some force of character, and


text:
Page:Lorna Doone - a romance of Exmoor (IA lornadooneromanc691blac).pdf/65

 for a little while he was very honest. But when the newness of his coming began to wear away, and our good folk were apt to think that even a gentleman ought to work or pay other men for doing it, and many farmers were grown weary of manners without discourse to them, and all cried out to one another how unfair it was that owning such a fertile valley young men would not spade or plough by reason of noble lineage—then the young Doones growing up took things they would not ask for.

And here let me, as a solid man, owner of five hundred acres (whether fenced or otherwise, and that my own business), churchwarden also of this parish (until I go to the churchyard), and proud to be called the parson's friend—for a better man I never knew with tobacco and strong waters, nor one who could read the lessons so well, and he has been at Blundell's too—once for all let me declare, that I am a thoroughgoing Church-and-State man, and Royalist, without any mistake about it. And this I lay down, because some people, judging a sausage by the skin, may take in evil part my little glosses of style and glibness, and the mottled nature of my remarks, and cracks now and then on the frying-pan. I assure them I am good inside, and not a bit of rue in me; only queer knots, as of marjoram, and a stupid manner of bursting.

There was not more than a dozen of them, counting a few retainers who still held by Sir Ensor; but soon they grew and multiplied in a manner surprising to think of. Whether it was the venison, which we call


text:
Page:The Last Judgement and Second Coming of the Lord Illustrated.djvu/193

 and John, in the Revelation, speaking of the measure of a man says, "that is the angel;" he also states that when he fell down to worship at the feet of the angel, the angel said unto him, See thou do it not, for I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren the prophets; a passage which expressly affirms an angel to have been of the human race.

Indeed, the end for which man was created was, that by the reception of holy influences from the Lord, he might be happy throughout eternity. What other end could the Divine love propose by such a creation; and what else could the Divine wisdom produce? It is plain that the Divine love is unceasingly engaged in efforts to make men sensible of the blessings it has to bestow. And who can reasonably doubt that the intention of God in the creation of humanity, was that He might have a rational object on whom to confer His blessings? And as these cannot be confined to this world only, but must be carried on to that which is eternal, it is obvious that the final intention of God in the creation of man must have been the formation of an angelic heaven from the good of the human race. This indeed is the reason why, from the very beginning, His image and likeness were implanted in them.

All things that are orderly in men are received from the Lord, and the natural tendency of every grace is towards its source. Like good and obedient children clinging to the protection afforded by their father's house, regenerated men acknowledge the Divine blessings, and hope to become residents in the Lord's kingdom. The Lord gives the graces by which they are led into its enjoyments; by those graces He attracts them on to heaven; and, doubt-


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/16


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/17


text: Index:Tracts for the Times Vol 3.djvu

title: Index:Tracts for the Times Vol 3.djvu


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/18


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/19


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/20


text:
Page:The Last Judgement and Second Coming of the Lord Illustrated.djvu/194

 less. He intends that the faithful shall be the inheritors of His glory. The regenerate love what God loves, and as both love the beatitudes of heaven, it is plain that its population is derived from the faithful among mankind. It is the obvious consequence of a good man's life, that he should find a place in heaven; to bring about this result, there is a connection from first principles to last—from the Lord as the first, with every good that can be found in man as the last—wherefore it is written, "If a man love me, he will keep my words, and my Father will love him, and we will come and make our abode with him." In such a case there is a uniting together, nor can the connection be broken, for it is as a cause and its effect. Hence the angelic heaven is closely associated with regenerated men: the angels communicating their influences, and men receiving them. The one subsists from the other: men without heaven, would be as a foundation without a superstructure; and heaven without mankind, would be like a house without a foundation. Thus heaven is connected with man, and man with heaven; if, therefore, a separation were to be effected, the end would be destroyed for which the connection is made, and God would depart from the purposes of His order and the designs of His mercy. This, however, is impossible; for addressing mankind He has said, "I have loved you with an everlasting love:" "I have created man for my glory." The connection subsisting between heaven and the world is clearly pointed out by the Lord's declaration, "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool." As mankind furnish the inhabitants of heaven, they are the bases upon which that kingdom rests; and, therefore, if their existence were to be brought to an end, it would be like removing the Divine footstool,


text: Index:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/21


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/22


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/23


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/24


text:
Page:The Last Judgement and Second Coming of the Lord Illustrated.djvu/195

 and leaving heaven without its resting-place; this, too, would put a stop to that government, of "the increase" of which it is said there shall be no end. Moreover it is written that "the righteous is an everlasting foundation;" how then shall the foundation be destroyed?

These considerations, then, point very decidedly towards the conclusion at which we aim. We learn from them not only that the Divine purpose in the creation of humanity was to provide inhabitants for heaven, but they also show us that mankind must be perpetuated, or that heaven would lose its basis; and, consequently, its inhabitants would be deprived of those enjoyments which arise out of their contributing to the spiritual necessities of men. "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation?"' What affliction is experienced by a united household when one who has been beloved is snatched away, and towards whom, therefore, no further affection can be displayed: one of the employments of love is thus interrupted; and so heaven would be brought into distress if mankind were to cease; an object of love would be taken from the angels, and so their uses and delights would be diminished; but as this cannot be imagined, it is clear that the preservation of men is requisite for the continuation of angelic enjoyment.

All that God has created is with a view to the existence of spiritual life; who cannot see that such an immense provision of means must be proportionate to some suitable end? And what end is more conformable to the Divine character than that of providing for the creation of an unlimited number of human beings, to be impressed with the love and knowledge of their Maker?

Every one who believes in the existence of heaven, also


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/25


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/26


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/27


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/28


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/29


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/30


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/31


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/31

 Rh some contempt of personal danger, Frederick IV. rejected the bold proposal, and limited himself to assuming an attitude of defence. He then wrote a begging letter to the Czar, intimating that he had given up his Schonen fancy, and requested the Czar to do the same and find his way home: a request the latter could not but comply with. When Peter at last left Denmark with his army, the Danish Court thought fit to communicate to the Courts of Europe a public account of the incidents and transactions which had frustrated the intended descent upon Schonen—and this document forms the starting point of The Northern Crisis.

In a letter addressed to Baron Gortz, dated from London, January 23, 1717, by Count Gyllenborg, there occur some passages in which the latter, the then Swedish ambassador at the Court of St. James's, seems to profess himself the author of The Northern Crisis, the title of which he does not, however, quote. Yet any idea of his having written that powerful pamphlet will disappear before the slightest perusal of the Count's authenticated writings, such as his letters to Görtz.

1.—Preface—— … 'Tis (the present pamphlet) not fit for lawyers' clerks, but it is highly convenient to be read by those who are proper students in the laws of nations; 'twill be but lost time for any stock-jobbing, trifling dealer in Exchange-Alley to look beyond the preface on't, but every merchant in England (more especially those who trade to the Baltic) will find his account in it. The Dutch (as the courants and postboys have more than once told us)


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/32


text:
Page:Adam's reports on vernacular education in Bengal and Behar, submitted to Government in 1835, 1836 and 1838.djvu/181

Rh other effect but to flatter the vanity of the race of Pundits by whom the change was made, as if their reputation for learning really had the effect, which it had not, of attracting foreign students to their seminaries. Of the two classes existing and recognized in this district, 136 students belong to the villages in which the schools are situated and 261 to other villages. The reasons that induce so many to leave their native villages are various. In some cases they leave the parental roof because there is no school of learning or none of sufficient repute in their native villages; but in the great majority of instances they prefer to pursue their studies at some distance from home, that they may be free from the daily distractions of domestic life, and from the requisitions often made by their fathers that they should perform some of the ceremonial observances of Hinduism in their stead in the family of some disciple at a distance. According to my information, the number is very few, although there probably are some, who have recourse to this measure from mere poverty, and with the view of gaining a livelihood at the expense of their teacher; for the large majority of students, although not wealthy, are above want, being the children either of Kulin-brahmans, Brahman-pundits, initiating or officiating priests, whose professional emoluments are comparatively considerable.

In a majority of cases the apartments used as a school-house and as a place of accommodation for the students, are separate from the dwelling-house of the teacher, but built at his expense and often also applied to the purpose of hospitality to strangers. Sometimes the building is one that has descended from a deceased father or brother to its present possessor. The cost of each building varies from ten to sixty rupees in ordinary cases; but in one extraordinary instance it amounted to two hundred rupees defrayed by a spiritual disciple of the Pundit to whom it belongs. In eleven instances the teachers are too poor to erect separate apartments and they consequently give their instructions within their own dwellings. The foreign students or those who have no home in the village are lodged and fed and pursue their studies at night either in the building erected for a school-room, in separate lodging-apartments attached to it, or in the dwelling-house of the teacher, the last-mentioned course being adopted only when there is no other resource. The separate buildings in which the students are accommodated are of the humblest description, as may be judged from the cost of their erection; huts with raised earthen floors and open either only on one side or on all sides according to the space which the owner can command for ingress and egress. That sort which is open on all sides is used only as a place of reading and study either public or private, and never as a dwelling.

It will be seen from Table III. that the period occupied by an entire course of scholastic studies is in several instances not less than twenty-two years, so that a student must often have passed


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/33


text:
Page:Adam's reports on vernacular education in Bengal and Behar, submitted to Government in 1835, 1836 and 1838.djvu/182

122 his thirtieth year before he leaves college. This is a great deduction from the most valuable years of a man’s life, but the period actually employed in collegiate study is lessened by the length of the vacations which the students receive or take. These extend generally from the month Asarh to the month Kartik, or from the middle of June to about the beginning of November, being from four to five months in the year, besides several shorter vacations at other periods. During the principal period of vacation those who are not natives of the villages in which they have been pursuing their studies return home and in most instances probably continue them there, but with less regularity and application than when under the eye of a Pundit.

The custom of inviting learned men on the occasion of funeral obsequies, marriages, festivals, &c., and at such times of bestowing gifts on them proportioned in value and amount to the estimation in which they are held as teachers, is general amongst those Hindus who are of sufficiently pure caste to be considered worthy of the association of Brahmans. The presents bestowed consist of two parts—first, articles of consumption, principally various sorts of food; and second, gifts of money. In the distribution of the latter at the conclusion of the celebration, a distinction is made between Sabdikas, philologers or teachers of general literature; Smarttas, teachers of law; and Naiyayikas, teachers of logic, of whom the first class ranks lowest, the second next, and the third highest. The value of the gifts bestowed rises not merely with the acquirements of the individual in his own department of learning, but with the dignity of the department to which he has devoted his chief labors and in which he is most distinguished. It does not, however, follow that the professors of the most highly honored branch of learning are always on the whole the most highly rewarded; for in Rajshahi, logic which, by the admission of all, ranks highest, from whatever cause, is not extensively cultivated and has few professors, and these receive a small number of invitations and consequently of gifts in proportion to the limited number of their pupils and the practical disuse of the study. Their total receipts, therefore, are not superior and even not equal to the emoluments enjoyed by learned men of an inferior grade, who have, moreover, a source of profit in the performance of ceremonial recitations on public occasions which the pride or self-respect of the logicians will not permit them to undertake. Whatever the amount, it is from the income thus obtained that the teachers of the different classes and grades are enabled to build school-houses and to provide food and lodging for their scholars; but several have assured me that to meet these expenses they have often incurred debt from which they are relieved only by the occasional and unexpected liberality of individual benefactors.

When a teacher of learning receives such an invitation is as above described, he generally takes one or two of his pupils with


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/34


text:
Page:The Heart of England.djvu/231

white houses on the hill are whiter than ever before in the early light and the south wind from over the sea. The soft, wheat-coloured sand is inscribed far from the water by the black scrawl of the overpast storm. But now the sea is broken by sliding ripples so small that they seem only the last, discontented efforts of the wind to make the surface one perfect floor of glass. The curving, foamy lines waver and swirl and are about to disappear and leave the desired level when others are born unnoticeably. The black hulls of the leaning ships gleam and darken the water, and by their reflections give it an immeasurable depth which contrasts strangely with its lucid tranquillity and the drowned roses of the departing dawn, for in the high blue sky some of the sunrise clouds have lost their way and hang, still rosy, near the zenith, round the transparent moon. The mist over the sea at the horizon is golden.

Sea and shore are at rest, all but one group of men who are welcoming a little ship that comes in upon the tide, fragrant and stately and a little weary, as with folded arms, solemn also as if she were invading, or perhaps bringing mysterious gifts for the ancient, wintry land.

And now they are hauling in the deeply-laden boat

title: Page:The Heart of England.djvu/231


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/32

 28 are about to mend their hands, if they can, in several articles of trade with the Czar, and they have been a long time about it to little purpose. Inasmuch as they are such a frugal people, they are good examples for the imitation of our traders; but if we can outdo them for once, in the means of projecting a better and more expeditious footing to go upon, for the emolument of us both, let us, for once, be wise enough to set the example, and let them, for once, be our imitators. This little treatise will show a pretty plain way how we may do it, as to our trade in the Baltic, at this juncture. I desire no little coffee-house politician to meddle with it; but to give him even a disrelish for my company. I must let him know that he is not fit for mine. Those who are even proficients in state science, will find in it matter highly fit to employ all their powers of speculation, which they ever before past negligently by, and thought (too cursorily) were not worth the regarding. No outrageous party-man will find it at all for his purpose; but every honest Whig and every honest Tory may each of them read it, not only without either of their disgusts, but with the satisfaction of them both… 'Tis not fit, in fine, for a mad, hectoring, Presbyterian Whig, or a raving, fretful, dissatisfied, Jacobite Tory."

"There being no doubt, but most courts will be surprised that the descent upon Schonen has not been put into execution, notwithstanding the great preparations made for that purpose; and that all his Czarish Majesty's troops, who were in Germany, were transported to Zealand, not without great trouble and danger, partly by his own gallies, and partly by his Danish Majesty s and other vessels; and that the said descent is deferred till another time. His Danish Majesty hath therefore, in order to clear himself of all imputation and reproach, thought fit to order, that the following true account of this affair should be given to all impartial persons. Since the Swedes were entirely


text:
Page:Advice to the Indian Aristocracy.djvu/87

49 the sportsman. It is very uukind of the sportsman to see such an animal suffer from its wounds or to play with it for his own fanciful amusement.

To a man of our position big game shooting is essential, because it teaches us how to be patient, to become courageous, to grow accustomed to fatigue, to become quick and good shots, and it gives us plenty of exercise and makes us watchful. But you must not devote too much of your time to Shikaree. Hunting, pig-sticking, paper- chasing, etc., make good riders ; but you should not be reckless in riding. Nearly the same is the case with polo, and hurdle-racing. If I were you, I would not go in for polo and hurdle-racing, as many a distinguished person has lost his life in these games. If you want to play polo, you had better play for fun and exercise in riding on well- trained ponies, but never play in a match or never go in for hurdle-racing. Racing


text:
Page:Adam's reports on vernacular education in Bengal and Behar, submitted to Government in 1835, 1836 and 1838.djvu/183

Rh him, giving each pupil his turn of such an advantage in due course; and when the master of the feast bestows a gift of money on the teacher, it is always accompanied by a present to the pupil less in amount but proportioned to the respectability of the teacher’s character and the extent of his attainments. The teacher sometimes takes a favorite pupil more frequently than others, the object being to give a practical proof of the success of his instructions as well as to accustom the pupil to the intercourse of learned and respectable society. As the student is furnished with instruction, food, and lodging without cost, the only remaining sources of expense to him are his books, clothes, and minor personal expenses, all of which, exclusive of books, are estimated to cost him in no case more and often less than seven rupees per annum. His books he either inherits from some aged relative or at his own expense and with his own hands he copies those works that are used in the college as text-books. In the latter case the expense of copying includes the expense of paper, pens, ink, ochre, and oil. The ochre is mixed with the gum of the tamarind-seed extracted by boiling, and the compound is rubbed over the paper which is thus made impervious to insects and capable of bearing writing on both sides. The oil is for light, as most of the labor of copying is performed by night after the studies of the day have been brought to a close. An economical student is sometimes able, with the presents he receives when he accompanies his teacher to assemblies, both to defray these expenses and to relieve the straitened circumstances of his family at a distance. I have learned on good authority that ten and even twenty rupees per annum have been saved and remitted by a student to his family; but the majority of students require assistance from their families, although I am assured that what they receive probably never in any case exceeds four rupees per annum.

I have already mentioned that in this district, as in Bengal generally, there are three principal classes into which the teachers and schools of Hindu learning are divided, and which, therefore, may with advantage be separately considered. The acquirements of a teacher of logic in general pre-suppose those of a teacher of law, and the acquirements of the latter in general pre-suppose those of a teacher of general literature who, for the most part, has made very limited attainments beyond those of his immediate class. As these are popular and arbitrary designations, they are not always strictly applied, but it would appear that of the thirty-eight schools of learning already mentioned, there are thirteen taught by Pundits who may be described as belonging to the first class; nineteen by Pundits of the second; and two by Pundits of the third or highest class; while the remaining four belonging to none of the leading classes must be separately and individually noticed.


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/35


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/1


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/2


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/3


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/4


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/5


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/6


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/36


text:
Page:Adam's reports on vernacular education in Bengal and Behar, submitted to Government in 1835, 1836 and 1838.djvu/186

126 It will be seen from Table III. that all these branches of general literature are not taught by every teacher. Some teach only grammar; others grammar and lexicology; others add poetry with or without the drama; and others embrace rhetoric. But the whole of these are required to constitute a complete course of philology and general literature. The teacher of grammar only, the mere grammarian, ranks in the lowest scale of learned men; and in proportion to the number of the other branches of general literature which he adds to his acquirements, he raises his reputation and emoluments as a Sabdik or philologer.

2. The nineteen schools of Hindu law are 9 (a), 18 (a), 18 (b), 46, 70 (a), 71, 72 (b), 84, 86 (a), 86 (c), 86 (e), 100, 170, 279 (c), 374 (a), 445, 447 (a), 447 (b), and 447 (c), of Table III., and contain 245 students, of whom 81 belong to the villages in which the schools are situated and 164 to other villages. The age at which they enter on their studies varies from nine to fifteen, and that at which they leave college varies from eighteen to thirty-two, the whole period of scholastic study varying from eight to twenty-three years. Omitting one school in which the age of beginning and completing study could not be satisfactorily ascertained, the average period of scholastic study in the remaining eighteen institutions is between sixteen and seventeen years. The professors of law receive throughout the year various sums as presents which, according to their own statements, average the lowest three rupees and the highest twenty-five per month. Omitting two schools respecting which this information could not be obtained, the average monthly receipts of the remaining seventeen amount to upwards of fourteen rupees each. All the students of a school of law throughout the year receive various sums as presents, which average the lowest four annas and the highest five rupees per month; and, omitting the two schools above-mentioned, the average monthly receipts of the remaining seventeen amount to rather less than two rupees each. The total expense which a student incurs in copying the books used in a course of instruction in a law-school varies from four to forty rupees; and omitting five schools in which this could not be ascertained, the average disbursements of each student in the remaining fourteen schools for books only during a whole course amount to upwards of twenty rupees.

The teachers of law are in all cases conversant with the grammar and lexicology of the Sanscrit language and can give instructions in them; some are also acquainted more or less familiarly with the poetical and dramatic writings: and a smaller number with the works on rhetoric. Every teacher of law receives students at the earliest stage and instructs them according to the extent of his own acquirements in general literature, and when he has reached that limit, he carries them on to the study of law. His students sometimes object to this arrangement and leave him


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/7


text: Page:The Rosciad - Churchill (1761, 2nd edition).djvu/37


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/8


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/33

 Rh driven out of their German dominions, there was, according to all the rules of policy, and reasons of war, no other way left, than vigorously to attack the still obstinate King of Sweden, in the very heart of his country; thereby, with God's assistance, to force him to a lasting, good and advantageous peace for the allies. The King of Denmark and his Czarish Majesty were both of this opinion, and did, in order to put so good a design in execution, agree upon an inter view, which at last (notwithstanding his Danish Majesty's presence, upon the account of Norway's being invaded, was most necessary in his own capital, and that the Muscovite ambassador, M. Dolgorouky, had given quite other assurances) was held at Ham and Horn, near Hamburgh, after his Danish Majesty had stayed there six weeks for the Czar. In this conference it was, on the 3rd of June, agreed between both their Majesties, after several debates, that the descent upon Schonen should positively be undertaken this year, and everything relating to the forwarding the same was entirely consented to. Hereupon his Danish Majesty made all haste for his return to his dominions, and gave orders to work day and night to get his fleet ready to put to sea. The transport ships were also gathered from all parts of his dominions, both with inexpressible charges and great prejudice to his subjects trade. Thus, his Majesty (as the Czar himself upon his arrival at Copenhagen owned) did his utmost to provide all necessaries, and to forward the descent, upon whose success everything depended. It happened, however, in the meanwhile, and before the descent was agreed upon in the conference at Ham and Horn, that his Danish Majesty was obliged to secure his invaded and much oppressed kingdom of Norway, by sending thither a considerable squadron out of his fleet, under the command of Vice-Admiral Gabel, which squadron could not be recalled before the enemy had left that kingdom, without endangering a great part thereof; so that out of necessity the said Vice- Admiral was forced to tarry there till the 12th of July, when his Danish Majesty sent him express orders to return with all possible speed, wind and weather permitting; but this blowing for some time con-


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/9


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/10


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/23

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government commits to ensuring income support and other services are available to vulnerable Australians when they need it, without stigma; and that debt recovery practices are undertaken in a manner that is fair, empathetic and respectful, and takes into account individual circumstances.

The Government will continue to implement changes to improve debt recovery policy and practice, within the underpinning legal framework.

The Government accepts in principle this recommendation.

The Government will improve social security debt arrangements and is committed to ensuring debt raising and recovery is undertaken in a timely, fair and respectful manner.

Any reform to the approach of raising and recovering social security debts should be undertaken in a systematic way, with careful consideration of the unique circumstances of social security debtors. The Government will carefully consider options for legislative reform, including


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/520


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/519


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/518


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/517


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/516


text:
Page:Karl Marx - Secret Diplomatic History of the Eighteenth Century (1899).djvu/34

 30 trary, he was detained. … The Swedes were all the while powerful at sea, and his Czarish Majesty himself did not think it advisable that the remainder of the Danish, in conjunction with the men-of-war then at Copenhagen, should go to convoy the Russian troops from Rostock, before the above-mentioned squadron under Vice-Admiral Gabel was arrived. This happening at last in the month of August, the confederate fleet put to sea; and the transporting of the said troops hither to Zealand was put in execution, though with a great deal of trouble and danger, but it took up so much time that the descent could not be ready till September following. Now, when all these preparations, as well for the descent as the embarking the armies, were entirely ready, his Danish Majesty assured himself that the descent should be made within a few days, at farthest by the 21st of September. The Russian Generals and Ministers first raised some difficulties to those of Denmark, and afterwards, on the 17th September, declared in an appointed conference, that his Czarish Majesty, considering the present situation of affairs, was of opinion that neither forage nor provision could be had in Schonen, and that consequently the descent was not advisable to be attempted this year, but ought to be put off till next spring. It may easily be imagined how much his Danish Majesty was surprised at this; especially seeing the Czar, if he had altered his opinion, as to this design so solemnly concerted, might have declared it sooner, and thereby saved his Danish Majesty several tons of gold, spent upon the necessary preparations. His Danish Majesty did, however, in a letter dated the 20th of September, amply represent to the Czar, that although the season was very much advanced, the descent might, nevertheless, easily be undertaken with such a superior force, as to get a footing in Schonen, where being assured there had been a very plentiful harvest, he did not doubt but subsistence might be found; besides, that having an open communication with his own countries, it might easily be transported from thence. His Danish Majesty alleged also several weighty reasons why; the descent was either to be made this year, or the thoughts of making it


text: Page:Ante-Nicene Christian Library Vol 6.djvu/515


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/24

 appropriate statutory limitation periods for the raising and recovery of social security debts to comprehensively address the issues identified by the Royal Commission.

The Government is committed to improving social security debt arrangements to ensure that debt recovery practices are clear and conducted in a respectful manner.

The Government will continue to implement administrative changes to make the system fairer for those who incur debts, and to reduce the likelihood of recipients incurring a debt in the first place.

If social security recipients do not agree with a debt decision, they can seek an explanation from Services Australia and/or apply for a formal review. Information about opportunities for review is included in Services Australia debt notices and is also available on the Services Australia website. In addition, social security recipients may request an appointment with a Services Australia social worker who can refer them to financial counselling and support services.

Measures to improve the accuracy of social security payments are being implemented as a priority for the Government, reducing the likelihood of debts being incurred due to overpayments. These include the use of Single Touch Payroll (STP) for reporting of employment income. STP has now been implemented for the majority of employers, enabling the pre-filling of social security recipients' employment income reports, and supporting faster and more accurate actual income reporting.

The Australian National Audit Office has also recently completed a performance audit on the accuracy and timeliness of income support, and Services Australia and the Department of Social Services are implementing the agreed recommendations.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the specialist input the Australian Government Solicitor or their representative could provide in the selection of the chief legal officers of Services Australia and the Department of Social Services.


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/32


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/25

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance of providing training and development to its in-house legal officers, to ensure that they are able to deliver services in line with Legal Practice Standards.

Services Australia legal staff are subject to Legal Practice Directions issued by the Chief Counsel which set out the obligations and requirements of agency legal staff, including a requirement to undertake regular training. In addition, performance agreements for all Services Australia legal staff will require staff to comply with the Legal Practice Directions.

Services Australia has also engaged with the Department of Social Services and other agencies within the Social Services portfolio on shared training for legal staff across the social services portfolio. Areas in focus include training on legal ethics, obligations of in-house lawyers and principles of advice writing. This training is additional to the obligations of in-house lawyers to complete mandatory Continuing Legal Education (CLE) to maintain their practising certificates.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance of having clear Legal Practice Standards in place that outline the core duties and responsibilities of in-house government lawyers.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) has developed a new package of legal practice governance documents, which include updates to the Legal Practice Manual issued by the Chief Counsel that set out the core duties and responsibilities of all legal officers working at DSS. Compliance with these duties and obligations will be included in the performance agreements for all legal staff.


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/26

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government recognises the importance of providing training and development to its inhouse legal officers, to ensure that they are able to deliver services in line with Legal Practice Standards.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) is establishing a regular training program for in-house lawyers that will include a focus on core studies and responsibilities laid down in DSS Legal Practice Standards. DSS is also actively taking steps to engage providers to deliver integrity and professional independence training for all lawyers in the Department. This training will be in addition to the lawyers' obligation to complete Continuing Legal Education (CLE) associated with maintaining the required Practising Certificate.

DSS has also engaged with Services Australia and other agencies within the social services portfolio regarding the opportunities for shared training for legal staff across the social services portfolio. Areas in focus include training on legal ethics, obligations of in-house lawyers and principles of advice writing.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government agrees that legal advice cannot be disregarded because it is in draft form and it is never acceptable for legal advice not to be finalised on the basis that the advice may be inconvenient or unwelcome.

The Secretary of the Department of Social Services issued guidance on the practice of requesting, clarifying and finalising legal advice on 14 November 2022. The Chief Counsel of the Department of Social Services has also issued Legal Services Practice guidance on obtaining external legal advice, including draft advice, clearly articulating that external advice is not to be left in draft form indefinitely, but should be finalised as soon as is practicable.

The Government also considers it is important that the treatment of draft legal advice is consistent across agencies. On 15 May 2023, the Secretary of the Attorney-General's Department circulated initial guidance to all the heads of legal services functions across the APS on the use of draft legal advice within government, making it clear that legal advice cannot be


text: Page:Clouds without Water (Crowley, 1909).djvu/33


text:
Page:Government Response – Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme.pdf/27

 disregarded because it is in draft form and that it is never acceptable for legal advice not to be finalised on the basis that the advice may be inconvenient or unwelcome. The Attorney-General's Department is reviewing the guidance in light of the observations made by the Royal Commission.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Government agrees that legal advice cannot be disregarded because it is in draft form and it is never acceptable for legal advice not to be finalised on the basis that the advice may be inconvenient or unwelcome.

The Chief Counsel of Services Australia has issued internal Legal Practice Standards on obtaining external legal advice, including draft advice. Legal Officers are required to have regard to the Chief Counsel's expectation that draft legal advice will ordinarily be finalised, that legal advice cannot be disregarded on the basis that it is in draft form, that it is never acceptable for draft legal advice not to be finalised because it may be unwelcome or inconvenient, and that draft legal advice should be finalised before it is relied upon to make decisions. Where finalisation of draft advice is not practicable, Legal Officers must place a file note on the relevant file confirming the reason the advice was not finalised.

The Government also considers it is important that the treatment of draft legal advice is consistent across agencies. On 15 May 2023, the Secretary of the Attorney-General's Department circulated initial guidance to all the heads of legal services functions across the APS on the use of draft legal advice within government, making it clear that legal advice cannot be disregarded because it is in draft form and that it is never acceptable for legal advice not to be finalised on the basis that the advice may be inconvenient or unwelcome. The Attorney-General's Department is reviewing the guidance in light of the observations made by the Royal Commission.

The Government accepts this recommendation.

The Legal Services Directions 2017 play an important function setting out the requirements for sound practice in the provision of legal services to the Australian Government.