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The federal government is introducing the Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets Bill, intended to stop the unwanted transfer of sensitive information to foreign militaries.
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The Albanese government has announced that it is introducing the bill to strengthen the Commonwealth’s ability to protect Australia’s national secrets.
It is set to include harsher penalties for anyone found to have disclosed sensitive Defence information.
The bill is also set to include authorisation requirements for certain former members of the Australian Defence Force or public service if they seek employment with foreign militaries or government agencies.
The federal government outlined that authorisation requirements will also extend to any citizen of permanent resident holder who uses military goods and tactics while training for a foreign military.
The new legislations is about keeping Australia’s defence secrets safe, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles said.
“This new legislation will bolster Australia’s national security by ensuring our military secrets remain safe,” DPM Marles explained.
“This sensible reform strengthens the robust laws we have in place by enhancing the government’s ability to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive Defence information to foreign militaries.
“Importantly, it is not intended to prohibit former Defence personal [personnel] seeking overseas employment opportunities. This is about keeping Australian secrets in Australian hands.”
