Purpose and Operations of the Immigration Detention Advisory Group (IDAG)

The role of the IDAG is to advise the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship on matters relevant to the detention of unlawful non-citizens in immigration detention centres, alternative and community detention arrangements, with particular reference to the appropriateness and adequacy of immigration detention services, accommodation and amenities.

The IDAG has unfettered access to immigration detention centres. Members are able to talk with staff, people in detention and detainee representative committees to obtain first-hand information on the operations and environment at each centre and alternative and community immigration detention arrangements.

Operations

The IDAG meets frequently to discuss the outcomes of subgroup activities and to consider its advice to the Minister. The IDAG reports regularly to the Minister and provides valuable feedback to the department regarding immigration detention related matters.

Members meet with a wide range of external stakeholders with an interest in immigration detention to hear their ideas and views on the immigration detention program.

To provide the Minister with reliable advice, the IDAG undertakes an extensive and varied program to :

• visit immigration detention centres and places of alternative immigration detention
• provide input into the development of immigration detention program strategies and departmental consultative processes
• seek feedback from a range of non-government organisations, community groups and professional bodies with an interest in the immigration detention program
• convene regular meetings and teleconferences each year to identify and discuss current and emerging priority issues
• respond to specific requests from the Minister to examine and advise on a particular issue or issues.