Secrecy Provisions Amendment (Sunsetting Provision) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Opened the debate

Rowland argued that the bill extends the operation of section 122.4 of the Criminal Code to ensure continuity of secrecy laws. Rowland stated that this section prohibits Commonwealth officers from communicating information in breach of statutory duties. Rowland explained that a separate bill proposes repealing this offence as part of broader reforms. Rowland maintained that the extension provides necessary time for parliament to consider those comprehensive changes before the current provision expires.

Government response

Rowland commended the bill to the chamber, emphasising the government's commitment to clear and fit-for-purpose secrecy laws. Rowland highlighted that the limited extension ensures officials remain bound by their duties while reforms are debated. Rowland noted that the measure supports the orderly consideration of the Secrecy Provisions Amendment (Repealing Offences) Bill. Rowland concluded that the bill balances immediate legal certainty with the opportunity for thorough parliamentary scrutiny of proposed changes.