George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Yes, indeed, Senator Fawcett, I can describe that framework. As you are aware, the Australian intelligence agencies operate under a strong framework of legislation and parliamentary, ministerial and executive oversight. The legislative framework is provided for by the Intelligence Services Act and the ASIO Act. Those acts were reviewed in 2011 by the independent reviewer of the intelligence community, who reaffirmed that the legal framework was sound and enshrines an appropriate balance between our security and safeguards for our privacy. The honourable senator would also be aware that there is a strong framework of parliamentary oversight, through the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security and the Senate select committee on defence and foreign affairs in particular. As well, there is ministerial oversight and oversight through the Inspector General of Intelligence and Security.