Office of the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security

The Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security is an independent statutory office holder who reviews the activities of the six intelligence agencies, namely: - Australian Security Intelligence Organisation - ASIO - Australian Secret Intelligence Service - ASIS - Australian Signals Directorate - ASD - Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation - AGO - Defence Intelligence organisation - DIO - Office of National Assessments - ONA The purpose of this review is to ensure that the agencies act legally and with propriety, comply with ministerial guidelines and directives and respect human rights. The Inspector-General can undertake a formal inquiry into the activities of an Australian intelligence agency in response to a complaint or a reference from a minister. The Inspector-General can also act independently to initiate inquiries and conducts regular inspections and monitoring of agency activities. In conducting an inquiry, the Inspector-General has significant powers which include requiring the attendance of witnesses, taking sworn evidence, copying and retention of documents and entry into an Australian intelligence agency's premises.