Protocol for the appointment of statutory officers

Statutory officers are persons appointed to positions established by legislation. They are given powers and functions under law.

They operate independently and impartially, providing important checks and balances across government and public administration.

Some statutory officers in the Northern Territory (NT) focus on integrity and oversight, such as the Integrity and Ethics Commissioner and the Auditor‑General. Others, such as the Anti‑Discrimination Commissioner and the Children’s Commissioner, also have roles in advocacy, complaint handling and administrative justice.

Protocol under the NT Integrity Framework

The protocol outlines the selection process for statutory officers in the NT with an integrity and oversight focus. It also supports the Territory’s broader integrity reforms and strengthens confidence in the independence and accountability of statutory office holders.

The protocol is adapted from the existing Protocol for Judicial Appointments and Appointment as President or Deputy President of the Northern Territory Civil and Administrative Tribunal, introduced in August 2017.

The selection process is designed to uphold integrity, independence and public accountability, and support the appointment of suitably qualified persons with the appropriate skills and experience for each position.

The protocol operates alongside relevant legislation, which sets out appointment processes and other matters including terms, conditions and reappointment arrangements.

Read the Protocol for the appointment of statutory officers PDF (170.4 KB).

Who the protocol applies to

The protocol applies to the following statutory officers:

• Auditor-General
• Electoral Commissioner
• Independent Commissioner Against Corruption
• Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Inspector.