Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Immigration and Border Protection) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Ludlam for his question. I did have the opportunity to address that during the debate on Monday, but given that I was cut off I am more than happy to address it again. The assessment was completed in consultation with the Australian Information Commissioner and I, therefore, tabled a copy of the statement, which you now have. The privacy impact assessment, you are correct, makes two recommendations in relation to Australian Privacy Principles 3 and 5.

In relation to Australian Privacy Principle 3, it is recommended that the department ensure that its officers are fully trained in using the new provisions under the bill. For Australian Privacy Principle 5, it is recommended that that department updates its relevant public notices in relation to identifying information and privacy and that signs are installed at airports where verification checks are being conducted. These signs will say that the checks are being conducted and that personal identifiers being collected will not be retained by the department. I am also advised by the department that these recommendations will be implemented shortly after the bill becomes law.

In relation to the training, I can provide you with advice that the Australian Border Force Act sets out that the Australian Border Force Commissioner can prescribe rules governing the conduct of Australian Border Force officers, including a strict integrity regime. The Australian Border Force college, the facility training Australian border force officers, has a number of arrangements and partnerships in place with government agencies and commercial partners for the provision of specialist training and facilities.

With regard to biometrics training, if I could just refer you to the undertaking that I have given to Senator Xenophon—and I am happy to go through that again during my summing-up speech—a report will be provided 12 months after the commencement of this particular piece of legislation and within 18 months. As part of this review, the department will look into the training that is being provided to officers and whether or not enhancements are required.