Marine Pest Sectoral Committee

The Marine Pest Sectoral Committee (MPSC) sits under the National Biosecurity Committee (NBC) and reports to the Agriculture Senior Officials Committee (AGSOC) through the NBC. MPSC develops and coordinates the implementation of harmonised, national arrangements to identify, minimise and address the pest risk to Australia's marine environment and associated industries. MPSC comprises two representatives from the Australian Government and one government representative from each state and the Northern Territory. Members come from the agency with responsibility for marine pest issues within each jurisdiction but bring a whole of government position to MPSC discussions. The Chairperson is selected by the membership and appointed for a two-year term. The committee has three observers based on technical/scientific expertise. New Zealand is a standing observer on MPSC. Secretariat support is provided by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. Face-to-face meetings are convened twice a year, with additional teleconference sessions as required. Meetings are hosted by member jurisdictions. A significant amount of business is considered out of session where committee discussion of the issue is not necessary. A stakeholder workshop is held in conjunction with each MPSC meeting to provide an opportunity for stakeholders to engage with members on national marine pest policy and programs. A communique is published soon after each meeting, informing stakeholders of outcomes of the meeting.