ABA response to the Federal Government’s proposed anti-terror legislation

26 July 2016

The Australian Bar Association has called upon the Federal Government to exercise caution when updating counter-terrorism legislation, particularly in relation to the extension of imprisonment of terrorists who, after serving their sentence, continue to pose an unacceptable risk to the community.

Whilst acknowledging that the measures will only be used in the most serious of circumstances, nonetheless the ABA notes that the proposal needs to be safeguarded and subjected to the same evidentiary and appellate review as any criminal proceeding.

The ABA firmly believes in the rule of law and urges the Government to maintain an appropriate balance between the undeniable need to keep the community safe with the protection of fundamental legal rights.

The ABA is always available for consultation on government legislation and has welcomed the opportunity on this occasion.

MEDIA ENQUIRIES: Jo Oakes  Mobile: 0439 700 076   email: media@austbar.asn.au