A Scientific Advisory Committee (Council or Commission) (SAC) is generally established and responsible for, providing scientific input to assist in policy making or analysis for government departments.

The function of a SAC is to:

• Help collect and collate scientific information
• Review scientific research and offer independent expert judgement
• Identify where there are knowledge gaps and sometimes to commission research to fill these gaps
• Define the extent of uncertainty and risk
• Provide scientific advice and advise on scientific issues
• To frame advice taking into account of social, ethical issues and public/stakeholder concerns
• Highlight issues likely to be of future concern

In addressing these functions SAC will normally report formally through the Chair to the sponsoring Department.