Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

I can take the opposition to the terms of reference, but, first of all, I can indicate that I was not at the press conference. I did not hear what transpired at the press conference. If there was anything that came out of the conference, I can go back to the Attorney-General and ask him whether there was anything more in it in respect of this specific question that the opposition have raised. What I think they do need to understand—with all respect—is that there is a balance between ensuring that we protect the national security interests and ensuring that we get to the bottom of these matters. The terms of reference, which I have been referring to, directly assist in that matter. Of course, it does answer more broadly the issue that the opposition have raised in relation to the specific matter. As I have said, I am happy to inquire further and see what the Attorney-General can assist with in respect of that matter.

It is worth understanding—at least from the opposition’s perspective—that in relation to effectiveness of cooperation, coordination and interoperability between the Commonwealth agencies and with state law enforcement agencies relating to these matters, and having regard to (a), (b) and (c), any deficiencies in the relevant laws or administrative and operational procedures and arrangements of the Commonwealth and its agencies, including agencies and inter-agency communication protocols and guidelines, they are the terms of reference that have been provided for this inquiry by the former New South Wales Supreme Court judge and would assist in providing the answer to the opposition in respect of that matter.