Department of Health and Ageing (DHA)

The Department of Health and Ageing has a diverse set of responsibilities, but throughout there is a common purpose, which is reflected in our Vision statement: Better health and active ageing for all Australians. We aim to achieve our Vision through strengthening evidence-based policy advising, improving program management, research, regulation and partnerships with other government agencies, consumers and stakeholders.

Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR)

The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator has been established within the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing to provide administrative support to the Gene Technology Regulator in the performance of her functions under the Gene Technology Act 2000.

The Gene Technology Act 2000, which came into force on 21 June 2001, introduces a national scheme for the regulation of genetically modified organisms in Australia, in order to protect the health and safety of Australians and the Australian environment by identifying risks posed by or as a result of gene technology, and by managing those risks through regulating certain dealings with genetically modified organisms.