4.4.2 Inter-agency communication

Principles
Communication between Government departments is particularly important where there is inter-agency collaboration to develop policies and programs, to communicate key Government themes and priorities, and in the management of crisis and emergency situations.

Inter-agency teamwork requires information sharing, and is fostered by informal contacts, joint planning and training, pre-planned agreements for the division of responsibilities, and the use of similar technology, procedures, and performance criteria.

Policy requirements
Information sharing across Government contains some risks in terms of privacy and security. Agencies must work together to ensure that confidential and sensitive information is handled according to security requirements, client information guidelines, information privacy principles, and relevant legislation.

In general terms, the principles and practices of communication that apply to ‘Partnerships’ apply equally to inter-agency communication.