Intel gathering

Call for increase in spy powers against terror

The review of the Australian intelligence community has called for streamlining the way the government authorises overseas spy agencies to collect intelligence on Australians, including "intelligence activity in support of the [Australian Defence Force]".

Currently in most cases the Foreign Minister or Defence Minister must give authorisation each time the agencies want to collect intelligence on any Australian individual abroad.

But under the change, they could ask for a standing authorisation of up to six months to gather intelligence on people associated with listed terrorist organisations such as Islamic State or al-Qaeda, though there would be strict safeguards added.