Background
WHA coordinates national wildlife disease surveillance programs and collects national surveillance data, with emphasis on supporting Australia’s environment, biodiversity, animal and human health, economy, trade and tourism. WHA administers the national wildlife health information database (eWHIS), which forms part of Australia’s National Animal Health Information Program. WHA also receives wildlife health and disease data and information related to non-surveillance activities.
WHA’s data management is focused on protection of national and jurisdictional interests, particularly where Australia’s environment, economy, trade, and animal and human health may be impacted, while appropriately managing the interests of individual data submitters. The purpose is to improve information sharing between stakeholders whilst recognising the need for care in doing so. The principles described here, along with WHA’s processes, have served WHA well over many years in facilitating sharing of information, and the experience and corporate knowledge of WHA staff ensure that information is managed appropriately.
WHA is an association incorporated under the Incorporated Associations Act in NSW. As such it is required to manage any private information as required by the Australian Privacy Principles in the Privacy Act 1988.