Recently, the Australian Department of Law released a report on the review of the Australian intelligence legislation framework-the “Richardson Review”, which for the first time extensively reviewed many national security laws passed in Australia after the “911” terrorist attacks. It is reported that the review recommends that the government merge the existing
“Telecommunications (Interception and Access Act)” and “The Surveillance Device Act” into one law, the “Electronic Surveillance Act”. The Electronic Surveillance Act (The Electronic Surveillance Act). Dennis Richardson, the former head of the Australian intelligence agency, pointed out in a 1,300-page report that Australia’s existing electronic surveillance laws are unnecessary and too complicated, and do not conform to current technological development trends. The new legislation will allow the Australian intelligence organization to secretly collect information on Australian citizens (including dual citizens residing in Australia) who participate in business negotiations and other activities on behalf of foreign governments. The Australian Security Intelligence Agency can also monitor Australian citizens engaged in foreign interference or espionage activities.
https://www.zdnet.com/article/australias-tangle-of-electronic-surveillance-laws-needs-unravelling/