Question Time AU

Bill Debate · Second Reading

AusCheck Amendment (Global Entry Program) Bill 2025, Transport Security Amendment (Security of Australia's Transport Sector) Bill 2025; Second Reading

Senate · Tuesday 25 March 2025

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

At a glance

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations introduced two bills to the Senate. The first bill facilitates Australian participation in the US Global Entry program by amending the AusCheck Act to allow background checks for applicants. The second bill strengthens security in aviation, maritime, and offshore sectors by updating legislative frameworks to address emerging threats such as espionage and cyber attacks. The Minister argued these measures enhance border efficiency and transport resilience. The debate was adjourned without a final vote recorded in this segment.

Outcome

The debate was adjourned and the bills were listed on the Notice Paper as separate orders of the day.

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

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Murray Watt (QLD) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Watt supported both bills, stating the AusCheck amendment would improve border entry experiences for Australians travelling to the United States by enabling participation in the Global Entry program. Watt explained that the legislation provides a basis for conducting background checks on applicants, aligning with US eligibility criteria and utilising existing secure systems within the Department of Home Affairs. Regarding the transport security bill, Watt argued it addresses evolving threats including nation-state interference, sabotage, and cyber incidents. Watt noted the reforms respond to an independent review and aim to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure through updated regulatory frameworks and increased penalty provisions for non-compliance.