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About the Department

Formal Advisory Structures

Australian Multicultural Advisory Council (AMAC)

The Australian Multicultural Advisory Council advises the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship and the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services on issues related to Australia's cultural diversity.

College of Immigration Oversight Group

Provides high level advice to the Minister and the Secretary in relation to the establishment and operation of the College of Immigration and the Learning and Development Strategy of the department.

Detention Health Advisory Group (DeHAG)

The Detention Health Advisory Group (DeHAG) was convened in March 2006 in response to recommendations in the Palmer Report. The establishment of this committee represents a significant step forward in working in an open and accountable manner with our key stakeholders to improve the general and mental health of people under our care.

DeHAG has a major role in providing the department with independent, expert advice regarding the design, implementation and monitoring of improvements in detention health care policy and procedures. DeHAG consists of key health and mental health professional and consumer group organisations.

Council for Immigration Services and Status Resolution (CISSR)

The Council for Immigration Services and Status Resolution (CISSR) was formed in September 2009. CISSR succeeds the Immigration Detention Advisory Group (IDAG).

CISSR will provide the minister with independent advice on the development of policies, processes, services and programs necessary to achieve the timely, fair and effective resolution of immigration status for people seeking asylum or other migration outcomes in Australia.

Refugee Resettlement Advisory Council (RRAC)

The role of the Refugee Resettlement Advisory Council is to advise the Minister on matters relating to the settlement of Humanitarian Program entrants and migrants.

The council's fifth term is from 19 March 2008 to 30 June 2010.

Tourist Visa Advisory Group (TVAG)

The Tourist Visa Advisory Group is a forum for the department and the tourism industry to share information on visa initiatives, seek feedback and input on performance and policy developments and discuss emerging issues.