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

Yes I can. The government has responded to the increased threat from Islamist terrorism in Australia and overseas by enacting the most comprehensive program of national security legislation reform in a generation. Each of the eight tranches of legislation, which I have introduced into the Senate, I am pleased to say have been passed with bipartisan support, and I thank the opposition for that. The government has also invested an additional $1.5 billion to support Australia's efforts in combating terrorism. Since the threat level was elevated in September 2014, our law enforcement and security agencies have disrupted 12 planned terrorist attacks in Australia, the most recent disruption being the Christmas Eve attack in Melbourne, which, had it been successful, would have resulted in significant loss of life. Sixty-two individuals have been charged with offences.

In the time remaining to me, might I remind senators of the National Security Hotline 1800 123 400, which all members of the Australian community should access should they have concerns about the behaviour of individuals.