Friday, 19 March 2010
Commitment to appoint an Independent National Security Monitor welcomed
President of the Australian Human Rights Commission Cathy Branson QC, today welcomed the passage of the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor Bill.
“This legislation means that a Monitor will be in place with the important role of safeguarding the protection of individual rights and liberties,” Ms Branson said.
Ms Branson said passage of the Bill was an important step in the strengthening of Australia’s human rights protections.
“The Commission has consistently argued that Australia's national security legislation should not infringe fundamental human rights,” she said.
“Importantly, the Monitor will review whether national security legislation is consistent with Australia's international human rights obligations as well as review and report on the operation and effectiveness of national security legislation.
“The Australian Human Rights Commission looks forward to working with the Monitor in carrying out this important task of ensuring that Australian national security laws protect human rights and are consistent with our human rights obligations,” Ms Branson said.
Media contact: Louise McDermott 02 9284 9851 or 0419 258 597
