Royal Commission on Intelligence and Security
RCIS · First Hope Royal Commission · Hope Royal Commission
21 August 1974 – 25 October 1977
Royal commission conducted by Justice Robert Hope into Australia's intelligence and security agencies, including ASIO and ASIS.
How it came into existence
Appointed on 21 August 1974 by the Governor-General on the advice of Prime Minister Gough Whitlam and Attorney-General Lionel Murphy, after the 1973 Murphy raids on ASIO and the leak of ASIO material on Jim Cairns. Justice Robert Hope of the New South Wales Court of Appeal was sole commissioner. It was to recommend what intelligence and security services the nation should have and how they could most efficiently and effectively serve the Australian people and Government.
Changes during its life
- 5 May 1977Reports tabled in Parliament.
- 25 October 1977Further reports tabled; Prime Minister Fraser announced the existence and functions of ASIS on the commission's recommendation.
How it ended
Delivered eight reports between 1975 and 1977, four of which were tabled in Parliament on 5 May and 25 October 1977 (the date of the last report was not confirmed). Its recommendations led to the Office of National Assessments Act 1977, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979 and the public acknowledgement of ASIS on 25 October 1977. The Parliamentary Handbook gives 25 October 1977 as the date the final report was presented.
Main functions
- Role and organisation of ASIO, ASIS and other intelligence agencies
- Coordination and assessment of intelligence
- Accountability and control of intelligence and security services
Lineage
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Sources
Government records and websites
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.