ROLE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL
1. The Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security (IGIS) has statutory independence. The position helps the ministers responsible for the following agencies to oversight and review their activities:
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Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)
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Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)
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Defence Signals Directorate (DSD)
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Defence Imagery and Geospatial Organisation (DIGO)
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Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO), and
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Office of National Assessments (ONA).
2. The purpose of this oversight and review is to ensure that the agencies act legally and with propriety, comply with ministerial guidelines and directions and respect human rights.
3. The office was established by the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security Act 1986 (the IGIS Act) on 1 February 1987.
4. The Inspector-General can undertake an inquiry into the activities of an agency in response to a request from the relevant minister or from the Prime Minister. In relation to ASIO, ASIS, DSD and DIGO, the Inspector-General can also initiate inquiries independently or in response to a complaint. The Inspector-General also conducts regular inspections and monitoring of agency activities.
5. In conducting an inquiry, the Inspector-General has the powers of a standing Royal Commission. These include requiring the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents, taking sworn evidence, copying and retaining documents and entering the premises of agencies.
6. Further information about the role and functions of the Inspector-General can be found at http://www.igis.gov.au.