Regulation Impact Statements
Preparing a RIS
The Australian Government and the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) both require that a Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) be prepared for significant regulatory proposals. While the nature of the RIS is essentially the same in both cases, there are important differences, particularly in relation to the process to be followed.
- Australian Government RIS requirements apply where the principal decision maker for a proposal is an Australian Government decision maker.
- COAG RIS requirements apply where the principal decision maker is a national decision maker.
Most Australian States and Territories have their own requirements for RISs that apply where a regulation will have effect in only a single state or territory. The requirements of states and territories can be found through the related sites web page.
Where RISs fit into best practice regulation-making processes
RISs form only one part of the process for best practice regulation making. To determine the correct stage of the process for preparation of a RIS, you should refer to either:
- Australian Government requirements for developing a regulatory proposal
- COAG requirements for developing a regulatory proposal
Guidance Material
Detailed guidance on the preparation of:
- An Australian Government RIS is contained in the Best Practice Regulation Handbook
- A COAG RIS is contained in Best Practice Regulation: A Guide for Ministerial Councils and National Standard Setting Bodies (October 2007)
The OBPR also provides training on preparing a RIS.
Contact for information on this page: OBPR contacts page