This Part regulates the disclosure and use of information (referred to as relevant information) obtained under this Act (or the Regulatory Powers Act as it applies in relation to this Act) by any of the following persons (referred to as entrusted persons):

  (a)   the Minister;

  (b)   the Secretary;

  (c)   an APS employee in the Department;

  (d)   any other person employed in, or engaged by, the Department.

The Minister may disclose relevant information to Commonwealth entities, State or Territory government bodies, and certain enforcement bodies, subject to certain conditions. In addition, the Minister may use or disclose relevant information to prevent or lessen a serious risk to human health or the environment.

An entrusted person may use or disclose relevant information for certain other purposes, including for the purposes of this and certain other Acts.

A person may commit an offence or be liable to a civil penalty if the person uses or discloses certain kinds of relevant information other than in accordance with this Part.