Who looks after WEA to ensure that they do a good job?
WEA was established as an agency under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and is subject to the provisions of that Act. WEA operates as an independent statutory agency and is accountable to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. WEA is required to report its activities annually to Parliament, through the Minister. It is also required to report to growers about the operation of the accreditation scheme each marketing year (1 October to 30 September). WEA must also operate under a corporate plan and must keep the Minister informed about changes to the plan. The Minister may write to WEA about matters relating to the plan and provide guidelines. The Minister also has the power to direct WEA to investigate any matters that are in the public interest. This includes any alleged or suspected contravention of a condition of accreditation under the Scheme.
