7.1. DLOs are appointed by their respective departments, and report to the Secretary or another senior officer of the department.
7.2. DLOs are required to complete a declaration of private interests before commencing the role. Secretaries and ministerial chiefs of staff should have regard to any private interests or activities which could compromise the DLO’s apolitical character.
7.3. Within the parameters set by this Guideline and other relevant requirements, the number of officers appointed and their specific duties are subject to the discretion of the Secretary and are determined with reference to the requirements of the Minister and the Department.
7.4. To protect the apolitical character of a DLO, appointments should generally be for 12 to 18 months and should not be longer than 24 months. Extensions should only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
Updated