Bill Debate · Second Reading

Strengthening Oversight of the National Intelligence Community Bill 2025; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Monday 24 November 2025

Continued from Wednesday 30 July 2025.

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

At a glance

The House of Representatives debated the Strengthening Oversight of the National Intelligence Community Bill 2025, which aims to expand oversight of all ten agencies within the national intelligence community. The Coalition supported the bill as a prudent measure to ensure rigorous accountability while acknowledging concerns about the government's legislative process. Labor members argued the legislation was necessary to maintain public trust and implement long-overdue reforms recommended by previous reviews. The bill passed its second reading with support from both sides of the House.

Outcome

The question was agreed to and the bill was read a second time.

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

How the debate unfolded

Continued the debate

Andrew Wallace (Fisher) (Liberal National Party) LNP

Wallace stated the Coalition would support the bill, recognising the need for intelligence agencies to have appropriate powers to address serious national security threats. Wallace noted the legislation expands the jurisdiction of the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security to include four additional agencies. Wallace highlighted that the bill strengthens relationships between oversight bodies and provides the committee with own-motion powers. However, he expressed concern regarding the government's handling of national security legislation, arguing that rushed timelines impede proper parliamentary scrutiny. Wallace commended the bill but urged the government to allow adequate time for legislative processes.

Government response

Michelle Rowland (Attorney-General) ALP Greenway

Rowland thanked members for their contributions and emphasised the government's primary responsibility to keep Australians safe. Rowland argued that while intelligence agencies require significant powers, they must be subject to strong and holistic oversight to ensure public confidence. Rowland stated the bill addresses gaps in the current framework by expanding the jurisdictions of the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security and the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security. Rowland noted the legislation strengthens the relationship between oversight bodies and enhances existing arrangements. Rowland commended the bill to the House.

Anne Stanley (Werriwa) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Stanley argued the bill builds on Labor's legacy of establishing independent oversight mechanisms for intelligence agencies. Stanley stated the legislation implements recommendations from previous reviews and expands the jurisdiction of oversight bodies to include the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and intelligence functions of other agencies. Stanley highlighted that the bill strengthens the statutory relationship between the Inspector-General, the Parliamentary Joint Committee, and the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor. Stanley commended the bill for ensuring holistic oversight of the national intelligence community.
Claire Clutterham (Sturt) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Clutterham emphasised the importance of anticipating future security threats and maintaining public trust through robust oversight. Clutterham argued the bill ensures consistent statutory oversight for all agencies exercising intelligence capabilities, balancing security needs with individual rights. Clutterham noted the legislation is compatible with international human rights instruments, including protections for humane treatment and fair trials. Clutterham commended the bill for striking a balance between empowering agencies and ensuring accountability.
Matt Gregg (Deakin) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Gregg described the bill as a significant update to intelligence oversight following the royal commissions held in the 1970s and 1980s. Gregg argued the legislation provides two layers of protection through expert oversight by the Inspector-General and democratic oversight by the Parliamentary Joint Committee. Gregg stated the bill ensures a consistent framework for overseeing the ten agencies in the national intelligence community. Gregg commended the bill for supporting effective intelligence delivery while maintaining democratic accountability.
Tania Lawrence (Hasluck) (Australian Labor Party) ALP support

Lawrence framed the bill as part of a broader government commitment to transparency and checks and balances within the executive. Lawrence noted the legislation expands the role of the Inspector-General and the Parliamentary Joint Committee, with budgeted funding to support these functions. Lawrence highlighted that the bill broadens the scope of legislation the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor can review. Lawrence commended the bill for making oversight functions more effective and reflecting evolved attitudes towards intelligence accountability.

First speaker today

Andrew Wallace (Fisher) (Liberal National Party)

LNP

Bill

Strengthening Oversight of the National Intelligence Community Bill 2025

Speeches

6 speeches, 4 other contributors

Topics

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Debate Strengthening Oversight of the National Intelligence Community Bill 2025; First Reading Bill Debate, 25 Nov 2025 · Same bill
Debate Strengthening Oversight of the National Intelligence Community Bill 2025; Second Reading Bill Debate, 25 Nov 2025 · Same bill

About House of Representatives debates

The House of Representatives debates bills, motions and matters of public importance in its main chamber. Members from all parties can take part, and the responsible minister usually replies for the government. Summaries are in reported speech, not transcripts; always check the official record before quoting.