Malcolm Turnbull (Wentworth, Liberal Party, Prime Minister) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

In introducing the National Security Legislation Amendment (Espionage and Foreign Interference) Bill 2017, I have spoken of the serious threat posed to Australia and our interests by covert foreign interference and espionage.

The Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme Bill will establish the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme. The scheme introduces registration obligations for persons or entities who have arrangements with, or undertake certain activities on behalf of, foreign principals. It is intended to provide transparency for the Australian government and the Australian public about the forms and sources of foreign influence in Australia.

I commend this bill to the House.

Debate adjourned.