3 December 2008
INTERCEPTION POWERS FOR QUEENSLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES
Attorney-General Robert McClelland today introduced legislation into Parliament, which will lead to Queensland law enforcement agencies having telecommunications interception powers.
These important law enforcement powers are already available to police forces in every other state and territory .The inclusion of Queensland agencies will mean that the telecommunications interception regime will be truly national.
“The amendments will recognise Queensland’s Public Interest Monitor in the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979 (Cth). This will allow the Queensland Government to introduce legislation that satisfies the recordkeeping, reporting and inspection obligations under the federal Act,” Mr McClelland said.
These obligations are a key component of the interception regime as they establish the minimum standards interception agencies must comply with to ensure accountability.
“This legislation recognises a longstanding commitment the Queensland Government has given to the Public Interest Monitor and its unique oversight role in law enforcement matters in Queensland.”
Media Contact: Adam Sims 0419 480 224
