Delivering overdue reform of intelligence and criminal justice frameworks
Today I introduced two bills to deliver overdue reform of Australia’s national intelligence community and criminal justice frameworks.
The National Security Legislation Amendment (Comprehensive Review and Other Measures No 2) Bill 2023 implements recommendations from the 2019 report of the Comprehensive Review of the Legal Framework of the National Intelligence Community, led by Mr Dennis Richardson AC. The former government implemented just 30 of 203 recommendations made by Mr Richardson.
The Bill will apply proper checks and balances to the authorisation of intrusive powers, provide operational clarity to agencies, lessen the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security’s administrative burden and increase transparency by ensuring appropriate access to information.
The Crimes and Other Legislation Amendment (Omnibus) Bill 2023 updates and clarifies the intended operation of certain provisions in the Crimes Act 1914 and other Commonwealth legislation. The Bill will strengthen proper administration of government, law enforcement and judicial processes by making necessary technical amendments.