The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.A.70 Agency Head

Definition

In certain circumstances Centrelink may disclose information acquired by an officer in the exercise of his or her powers, or performance of his or her duties or functions under the PPLAct to an Agency Head for purposes of that agency.

Within the meaning of the Public Service Act 1999:

  • 'Agency' means a department or an executive agency or a statutory agency, and
  • 'Agency Head' means the Secretary of a department or the head of an executive agency or the head of a statutory authority.

The Secretary cannot delegate to anyone except the Chief Executive Centrelink or the Chief Executive Medicare, the Secretary's power to disclose information to an Agency Head.

Act reference: PPLAct section 128 Disclosing personal information, section 303 Delegation

Public Service Act 1999 section 7 Interpretation

Policy reference: PPL Guide 6.1.2 Confidentiality

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