One step closer to extending the operation of important terrorism legislation

A Bill which extends the operation of important legislative provisions designed to prevent and respond to terrorism has passed the House of Assembly.

The Terrorism Legislation (Extension) Bill 2025 amends the Police Powers (Public Safety) Act 2005 and the Terrorism (Preventative Detention) Act 2005 to extend their operation until 31 December 2030.

Both Acts were introduced in 2005 following the Intergovernmental Agreement on Counter-Terrorism Laws which was signed by the then Prime Minister and state and territory First Ministers and sought to create consistency in counter terrorism legislation across the country.

Attorney-General, Guy Barnett, said while neither Act has been utilised in Tasmania to date, Australia’s terrorism threat level is now ‘probable’, meaning there is a greater than fifty per cent chance of an onshore attack or attack planning in the next twelve months.

“As terrorism and violent extremism around the world remains a serious threat, it is important that Tasmania’s security framework remains in place,” the Attorney-said.

“The Bill will preserve national consistency, which is vital to enabling Australia’s law enforcement, intelligence and prosecution agencies to prevent terrorist acts occurring and investigate and prosecute those who commit acts of terrorism or who seek to commit such acts.

“I look forward to seeing this important Bill progress through the Legislative Council.”

The Public Safety Act provides police officers with necessary powers to ensure the safety of the public where there is a potential terrorist threat to a significant event or essential infrastructure, or where a terrorist act has occurred.

The Terrorism (Preventative Detention) Act 2005 provides for an authorised person to seek the detention of a person for up to 14 days in order to prevent an imminent terrorist act occurring or preserve evidence of, or relating to, a recent terrorist act.