Liberal ministers and backbenchers remain angry that the job had been handed to the former deputy premier six months after he quit state politics,and question why the decision did not go to cabinet for approval.
The government maintains the position should not have gone to cabinet because it needed to remain independent of the process.
A 2021 selection panel shortlisted four candidates,with claims one NSW bureaucrat was even offered the position before it was rescinded later that year.
On Wednesday,Perrottet moved to distance himself from the decision and shifted focus towards the senior public servant he said was ultimately responsible for the appointment,Amy Brown.
TheHerald revealed on Tuesday the government drew up the candidate shortlist for the job last May,but the role was ultimately readvertised and handed to Barilaro months after his resignation from parliament.
The position was created by Barilaro when he was trade minister.