Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

Crimes and Other Legislation Amendment (Omnibus No. 1) Bill 2026; Second Reading

House of Representatives · Wednesday 11 March 2026

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

At a glance

The Attorney-General moved the second reading of the bill, which aimed to modernise and clarify various pieces of crimes-related legislation. The proposal included updates to police powers, criminal code procedures, prosecution agency operations, extradition processes, and telecommunications oversight. The speaker argued these changes would improve efficiency and safety while maintaining safeguards. The debate was adjourned without further discussion or voting recorded in the transcript.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Rowland argued that the bill was necessary to support the effective administration of government by updating key crimes legislation. Rowland stated that modernising these laws would allow law enforcement agencies to operate more efficiently while maintaining appropriate safeguards for community safety. The member highlighted that the amendments would extend certain surveillance powers until September 2029 to allow for broader reform considerations. Rowland also noted that the bill would streamline processes for serious drug offence prosecutions and conflict of interest management within the prosecution agency.