15Associate members

##### 15 Associate members (1) The Minister, after consultation with the member, may appoint persons to be associate members. (2) An associate member shall be appointed: (a) for such period, not exceeding 12 months; or (b) in order to conduct such inquiry; as is specified in the instrument of appointment, but, subject to this Act, is eligible for re‑appointment. (3) An associate member may be appointed on a full‑time or part‑time basis. (4) Subject to this Part, an associate member holds office on such terms and conditions as the Minister determines in writing. (5) An associate member shall be deemed to be the member for the purposes of the exercise by the associate member of any powers, or the performance by the associate member of any functions or duties, of the member in relation to an inquiry, and, unless the contrary intention appears, a reference in this Act (other than this section) to the member shall, for those purposes, be construed as including a reference to an associate member.