Anne Urquhart (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

At the request of Senator Watt, I move:

That there be laid on the table by the Minister representing the Attorney-General, by no later than 3.30 pm on 8 October 2020, the unclassified version of the report by Dennis Richardson AC titled Comprehensive review of the legal framework governing the national intelligence community.

Jonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Scott Ryan (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Jonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The review by Mr Dennis Richardson AC is the most significant review of the intelligence legislative framework in four decades. Consequently it requires careful consideration by government. Obviously, this process has been disrupted somewhat by the COVID-19 pandemic and the requirement for all governments to focus all efforts on protecting lives and livelihoods.

The government's consideration of this important substantial review is being finalised, and I expect an unclassified report will be publicly released along with a government's response in coming months. As is appropriate, Mr Richardson has briefed the chair and deputy chair of the PJCIS along with the shadow Attorney-General throughout the course of the review. Attempts by the opposition to rush this process are irresponsible, further demonstrating they don't possess the temperament needed to govern and keep Australians safe.

Question agreed to.