Established by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act 1998 (ARPANS Act), ARPANSA commenced operation on 5 February 1999. ARPANSA replaced the Nuclear Safety Bureau and Australian Radiation Laboratory. Our strategic objectives are:
- Identify, assess and communicate health, safety and environmental risks from radiation
- Promote radiological and nuclear safety and security, and emergency preparedness
- Promote the safe and effective use of ionising radiation in medicine
- Ensure risk informed and effective regulation
- Enhance engagement with stakeholders
- Enhance organisational innovation, capability and resilience.
ARPANSA provides the Australian Government and community with:
- Expertise
We build and maintain expertise in measurement of radiation and assessment of health impacts, including the assessment of risks and responses to radiation emergencies. - Advice
We provide high quality advice to the government and the community on issues related to exposure and effects of radiation, radiation protection and nuclear safety. - Regulation
We use our licensing powers and work with Commonwealth entities to ensure the safety of radiation facilities, using a risk-informed regulatory approach. - Best Practice
We lead the development of codes, standards, guides and advice to support radiation protection and nuclear safety throughout Australia, and play a prominent role in relevant international organisations. - Services
We offer high quality services for the purpose of protection against the harmful effects of radiation. - Research
We undertake research and development, and build strategic partnerships with relevant national and international academic and research organisations.
Statements of expectations and intent
The Australian Government agreed that Ministers would issue Statements of Expectations to statutory agencies. Through issuing a Statement of Expectations, Ministers are able to provide greater clarity about government policies and objectives relevant to a statutory authority, including the policies and priorities it is expected to observe in conducting its operations. The Statement of Expectations recognises the independence of the statutory agency.
