Law, justice & securityAgencyExists today
Independent National Security Legislation Monitor
INSLM
2011 – present
Independent statutory office that reviews the operation, effectiveness and implications of Australia's counter-terrorism and national security laws and reports to government and Parliament.
How it came into existence
Created by the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor Act 2010; the first monitor, Bret Walker SC, was appointed in 2011, with the office supported by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Legislation: Independent National Security Legislation Monitor Act 2010
Changes during its life
- May 2018Responsibility for the monitor moved from the Prime Minister to the Attorney-General as part of the Home Affairs reforms, under the Home Affairs and Integrity Agencies Legislation Amendment Act 2018 (assented to 9 May 2018).
Main functions
- Review of counter-terrorism and national security legislation
- Assessment of whether laws contain appropriate safeguards
- Reports to the responsible minister for tabling in Parliament
- Inquiries referred by the Prime Minister, Attorney-General or Parliament
Where it sits
In the portfolio of Attorney-General's Department.
Lineage
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Sources
Primary sources
- Australian Government Organisations Register (Department of Finance, data.gov.au) (listed from 24 April 2015 to the latest release (30 June 2026))
- Home Affairs and Integrity Agencies Legislation Amendment Act 2018 (Federal Register of Legislation)
Government records and websites
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.