We use information from various sources to inform risk analyses. These include:
- technical submission by the country seeking to export a commodity
- peer-reviewed research/academic publications
- agriculture extension material
- farmer training manuals
- legislation
- standard operating procedures
- completed risk analyses
- treatment manuals
- pest and disease interception records
- pest and disease repository/databases
- media articles
- international standards and manuals
- departmental guidelines and work instructions.
We invite stakeholders to contribute information relevant to our risk analyses at any time.
We carefully consider all information received. We use the most appropriate information to:
- inform the risk analysis
- where appropriate, identify suitable risk management measures.
We apply the following general principles. This is to ensure we use appropriate information in risk analyses.
Scientific integrity and transparency
We use information that is scientifically credible, peer-reviewed and published in reputable sources.
We also use high-quality open source and grey literature. We use this when peer-reviewed material is limited. This ensures a comprehensive coverage of the subject.
Where there is insufficient information, we base our analysis on that which is available. We carefully and accurately cite and reference our sources.
Critical evaluation and weight-of-evidence
We carefully evaluate information for reliability, bias and relevance. When many sources present differing views, we consider the information when forming balanced and well-supported conclusions.
Relevance and applicability
We carefully select literature based on its relevance to the biosecurity risk being considered within the analysis.
We consider current research to reflect the latest scientific understanding. We ensure that our assessments are timely and applicable.
Inclusive and multidisciplinary approach
We draw on a wide range of fields relevant to the analyses. These include:
- ecology
- epidemiology
- microbiology
- agronomy
- livestock production.
This is to capture the full scope of the biosecurity risk.
Consistency with international frameworks
We align our risk analyses with international standards and methodologies.
For plant risk analyses, these are the:
- International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC)
- International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs).
For animal risk analyses, these are the:
- World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) International Animal Health Codes.
Stakeholder engagement and communication
We communicate our findings clearly and accessibly. This is to assist stakeholders to understand our analyses.
We invite feedback before finalising risk analyses and acknowledge the submissions from stakeholders.
We carefully review every submission we receive from stakeholders. We offer transparent feedback, clearly explaining the rationale for the decision-making process.
We provide detailed responses to key issues raised by stakeholders.