Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Report from Committee

Transport Security Amendment (Security of Australia's Transport Sector) Bill 2025; Report from Committee

House of Representatives · Thursday 27 March 2025

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Andrew Wallace presented the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security's advisory report on the bill. He highlighted the national security importance of securing aviation and maritime hubs against cyber threats and organised crime. The committee recommended the bill be passed, subject to amendments addressing regulatory burdens on smaller entities and clarifying reporting requirements. Wallace noted that the legislation builds on previous reviews and aims to protect supply chains and the visitor economy.

Outcome

The report was tabled as a parliamentary paper under standing order 39(e).

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Andrew Wallace (Fisher) (Liberal National Party) LNP

Wallace argued that securing transport infrastructure is vital for national security and economic prosperity, citing the risks of cyberattacks and organised crime. Wallace stated that the committee recommended the bill be passed, provided that specific recommendations regarding regulatory burden and implementation timeframes for smaller entities were adopted. Wallace emphasised the need for clear guidance from the Department of Home Affairs to reduce duplication in reporting requirements. Wallace also called for a scalable penalty regime and safeguards on security direction powers.