- The IPPAS follow-up mission to Australia was the 80th IPPAS mission conducted by the IAEA since the program began in 1995.
- The mission report specified four recommendations and fifteen suggestions which could enhance nuclear security.
- Five good practices were identified during the mission.
- Australian experts have participated in the conduct of eleven IPPAS missions in other Member States over the past five years.
On 30 October to 10 November 2017, Australia hosted a two-week IAEA International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission, following the Australia's first mission held in 2013.
The mission reviewed Australia's nuclear security-related legislative and regulatory framework as managed by ASNO and ARPANSA and nuclear security systems at Australia's national nuclear facility operated by the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). The Australian Signals Directorate and the Australian Federal Police also participated in the mission.
IPPAS missions are conducted on the request of IAEA member states in order to assist the strengthening of national security regimes. The missions call upon a team of international experts to provide peer review advice on implementing international instruments including the Amended CPPNM and IAEA guidance regarding nuclear security. The missions also compare State practices with international best practices and recommend improvement. IPPAS missions produce a report that makes recommendations and suggestions and also point out good practices.
The IPPAS team visiting Australia comprised seven experts from five countries and from the IAEA. Their report set out four recommendations fifteen suggestions and identified five good practices. IPPAS team concluded that Australia has a mature and well-established nuclear security regime, which has been enhanced significantly in the recent decade and further on the basis of the 2013 IPPAS mission report.
The IPPAS mission report is posted here as a measure of transparency. In keeping with prudent practice, portions of the report have been redacted to protect information that could prejudice the security of nuclear material or facilities.
A work plan will be developed to address (where not already done so) all recommendations and suggestions made during both IPPAS missions.