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

I thank the senator for the question. The report in today’s Australian refers to a strategic review. It was initially requested by the commissioner over two years ago. The report indicated that the Australian Federal Police needed additional assistance to fund its core capabilities. Savings measures were also suggested. The new government has committed to additional police for the Australian Federal Police. The 500 new police over five years will assist the Australian Federal Police to meet these core commitments.

Every agency that spends public money has been called to account by this government. The Australian Federal Police has been asked to examine where it may make savings or improve its financial performance. Of course, the government will consider any savings measures in the context of its commitment to increase the Australian Federal Police capacity and our ongoing commitment to police assistance in our region.

I also had the opportunity of looking at the press release that was issued by Senator Brandis with Mr Christopher Pyne. Within that there are a range of allegations which are clearly incorrect. It makes a number of wide claims. What I can say is that the government has enjoyed good relations with the Australian Federal Police. We are pleased to be able to work with Commissioner Keelty in respect of the operations that the Federal Police commit to and we are also pleased to be able to provide the 500 new police to be able to work effectively within our community.

Community safety is one of the concerns the Australian Labor government have in this area, and we are concerned to work with the Australian Federal Police to ensure that the community is safe across all areas. As I indicated, the Len Early review occurred some two years ago, but it is the Rudd Labor government that is responding to it today.