Providing for Australia’s Security

The Government is continuing to increase resources for Australia’s security agencies to meet the higher demands placed on them. Cooperation between government agencies, in Australia and overseas, and links to business and the broader community are critical.

The Providing for Australia’s Security package in this budget includes $239 million to enhance further the investigation and language skills of intelligence agency personnel. The National Security Hotline will continue as an effective link to the broader community on security matters.

Funding of $522 million will improve protective security, including in overseas missions. Within Australia, additional funding will go towards improved security for Defence personnel and facilities, diplomatic guarding and support for businesses providing critical infrastructure.

The Government is harnessing emerging technologies to bolster Australia’s border protection. To ensure people of concern cannot access visas, the Government will deploy biometric technology using face and fingerprint scans. It also will introduce ePassports over time for Australian citizens.

Enhancing quarantine and protecting Southern Ocean fisheries

High levels of quarantine intervention are essential to protect Australia’s unique pest and disease-free status, and to enable our continued access to world markets. The Government has committed $580 million to maintain and enhance Australia’s quarantine inspection regime.

This budget also provides $181 million for an armed patrol vessel to protect Australia's sovereign interests and environmental values in the Southern Ocean from illegal fishing.