The Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security Act 1986 provides for the appointment of the IGIS and regulates the exercise of the Inspector-General's powers.

The Office of the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security is an exempt agency under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (see schedule 2, section 7, Part I – Exempt agencies).

Other legislation that is relevant to the work of the IGIS includes:

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979

Intelligence Services Act 2001

Office of National Assessments Act 1977.

Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979