Opened the debate
Thistlethwaite argued that the bill would expand Australia's participation in the US Global Entry program, improving border entry for Australian travellers. The member stated that the legislation amends the AusCheck Act 2007 to provide a legal basis for conducting necessary background checks on applicants. Thistlethwaite noted that the arrangement was secured by the Prime Minister in 2023 and announced by the Minister for Foreign Affairs in August 2024. The member emphasised that AusCheck has the expertise and secure systems required to manage the high volume of expected applications. Thistlethwaite also highlighted that the bill aligns Australian checking criteria with US requirements, including checks for offences under the Defence Force Discipline Act.