Committee to test proposed powers, safeguards and 2029 extensions
A federal parliamentary committee has begun reviewing the Counter-Terrorism Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, which was introduced on 12 August 2026.
The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, or PJCIS, is examining changes to control orders, post-sentence orders and related police powers.
Under the bill, control orders, preventative detention orders and post-sentence orders would continue for three more years until 7 December 2029.
The bill would also extend certain terrorism-related police powers in the Crimes Act 1914 until 7 December 2029.
In the Criminal Code, Division 105A would be updated to change the high-risk terrorist offender post-sentence order framework.
Meanwhile, Division 104 of the Criminal Code would be strengthened to tighten the control order regime.
Senator Raff Ciccone inquiry
The committee has invited written submissions by Wednesday, 2 September 2026, from government agencies, legal experts, academics, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
Chair Senator Raff Ciccone said the inquiry would test whether the amendments support national security agencies and law enforcement while keeping public safeguards and oversight.
“This inquiry will examine whether the proposed amendments appropriately support Australia’s national security agencies and law enforcement bodies while maintaining the safeguards and oversight expected by the Australian community,” Ciccone said.
The committee also expects evidence from interested stakeholders during the review process.
Beyond the 7 December 2029 extensions, the bill would amend rules for the de-listing of terrorist organisations.
The same bill would expand protections for United Nations and associated personnel.
Courts would also be allowed to consider findings of guilt in control order and post-sentence order proceedings, even where no conviction was recorded.
Further details are available at aph.gov.au/pjcis, where people can make a submission, read other submissions and check upcoming public hearings.
On the same PJCIS website, users can track the committee and receive email updates through the blue Track Committee button.
