A review of political cronyism kept secret for more than two years has put Labor on the back foot, with its leaked advice revealing why.

The review, commissioned by Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, has called for an end to politicised public sector appointments and a move to an independent, merit-based process.

But Labor has also installed a slate of former MPs, ministers and political allies to public sector boards and government bodies, as did the coalition when it was in government.

Current and past board appointments were not included in the review, nor was the process related to a specific person.

The recommendations cover appointments to boards and bodies across all commonwealth portfolios, although the government has indicated privately that not all will recommendations be accep

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