Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security
IGIS
Summary
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The Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security is an independent statutory office holder appointed by the Governor-General under the IGIS Act 1986. The IGIS reviews the activities of Australia's six intelligence agencies for legality, propriety, ministerial-guideline compliance and human rights. Since the Surveillance Legislation (Identify and Disrupt) Act 2021, IGIS jurisdiction extends to the AFP's and ACIC's use of network activity warrants — the only AFP functions within IGIS remit.
The IGIS has Royal-Commission-equivalent inquiry powers including compulsory document production and examination of witnesses. The Inspector-General cannot be dismissed by the Government mid-term. Annual reports are subject to Attorney-General review for national security deletions before tabling.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Executive appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | Not specified |
| Removal standard | Cannot be removed before term expires |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | Yes |
| Compel testimony | Yes |
| Records access | Full access |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | Executive review |
Statute
- Name
- Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security Act 1986
- Citation
- Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security Act 1986 (Cth) Act No. 101 of 1986, as amended by the Surveillance Legislation (Identify and Disrupt) Act 2021
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Six Commonwealth intelligence agencies (ASIO, ASIS, ASD, AGO, DIO, ONI) and, since 2021, the intelligence functions (network activity warrants) of the AFP and ACIC; reviews for legality, propriety and human rights compliance