The Family Responsibilities Commission is governed by the Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008.
The Family Responsibilities Commission Act 2008 (the FRC Act) was passed in the Queensland Parliament with bipartisan support on 13 March 2008. The Commission commenced operating on 1 July 2008 and conferencing began on 12 August 2008 with the first sitting being held in Coen.
When the legislation was introduced, the Family Responsibilities Commission was described as a new approach to supporting change in local social norms and behaviour. The Commission was established to help improve outcomes for children and families by linking welfare reform with responsibility, support and access to services.
The FRC Act has undergone several amendments over time. The legislative history of the FRC Act can be viewed, and the current Act can be downloaded at the Queensland Legislation website.
Part 12 of the FRC Act provides for the establishment of the Family Responsibilities Board (FR Board). Under section 117 of the FRC Act, the FR Board has a mandate to:
Section 118 of the FRC Act provides for the membership of the FR Board which is endorsed by the Queensland Governor in Council. The FR Board consists of one person nominated by the Minister (chairperson of the FR Board), one person nominated by the Australian Government and one person nominated by the Cape York Institute. Board members are appointed by the Governor in Council for the term stated in the member’s instrument of appointment.
Section 123 of the FRC Act states that the FR Board must meet every six months and the Board members must meet in person at least once a year.
