Introduction
The Department of Finance developed the Best Practice Handbook to improve regulatory practice on standards and conformance policy. This specifically includes risk assessments, standards and conformity assessment procedures.
This Handbook is a tool to support regulators to apply the Regulatory Policy, Practice & Performance Framework (the RPPPF). It will also help policymakers implement the single national market for goods reform agreed under the revitalised National Competition Policy.
What is the Best Practice Handbook?
The Handbook provides 4 design questions and 13 key tools to guide policymakers when developing standards and conformance policy. These questions and tools will help policymakers develop fit-for-purpose regulation.
The Handbook encourages policymakers to adopt existing standards where appropriate and suitable. This includes international, regional, Australian and overseas standards, as well as risk assessments and conformity assessment procedures. This will help reduce unnecessary international and interstate barriers to trade.
Who should use the Best Practice Handbook?
All Commonwealth policymakers and regulators should refer to the Handbook when developing reforms on standards and conformance policy.
State and territory policymakers are encouraged to apply the Handbook in their own jurisdictions.
Contact
For further information and support, please contact: APSRegulatoryReform@finance.gov.au.
