The Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity (IGAB), which commenced in 2012, is an agreement between the Commonwealth, state and territory governments to strengthen the national biosecurity system.
It defines the roles and responsibilities of governments and outlines the priority areas for collaboration to minimise the impact of pests and diseases on Australia’s economy, environment and community.
Independent reviews
The IGAB requires that within five years from commencement, and every five years afterwards (or earlier if considered necessary) an independent review of the implementation and effectiveness of the IGAB is to take place.
The 2024 independent review of the IGAB is underway and will provide a review report to Commonwealth, state and territory Ministers responsible for biosecurity matters on findings and any recommendations for improvement.