FSANZ Board: Bringing expertise to food regulation

The FSANZ Board plays an important role in helping ensure food standards are developed through a robust, evidence-based process.

Established under the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991, the Board is the accountable authority for the agency. Among its responsibilities is approving changes to the Food Standards Code.

Board members are appointed by the Australian Government, in consultation with the Food Ministers’ Meeting and are selected for their expertise across a range of fields, including food science, public health, consumer affairs, primary production, food manufacturing and public administration.

This mix of skills and experience helps ensure different perspectives are considered when significant food regulatory decisions are made.

Transparency is an important part of the Board's governance arrangements. Board members are required to declare interests that may relate to the Board's work, with standing interests published on the FSANZ website. Potential conflicts of interest are also considered at each Board meeting and managed to maintain the integrity of the Board's decision-making processes.

The Board's decisions are informed by FSANZ's scientific assessments, stakeholder consultation and advice from experts. Once the Board has approved a proposed change to the Food Standards Code, the decision is considered by Australian and New Zealand food ministers. Ministers may either allow the change to proceed or request that FSANZ review the decision.