Executive Oversight of Intelligence Agencies in Australia
Author(s)
Hardy, Keiran
Williams, George
Griffith University Author(s)
Year published
2016
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
This chapter assesses whether executive oversight of the
Australian intelligence agencies is robust, stringent, and
effective. The chapter first sets out the six Australian
intelligence agencies and their functions. It then sets out the
executive bodies that oversee those agencies, including the
Inspector-General of Security and the Independent National
Security Legislation Monitor. These oversight mechanisms are
categorized according to the functions they perform, such as
authorizing the use of covert powers or reviewing legislation.
The chapter then assesses the strengths and weaknesses of
this oversight system. Although ...
View more >This chapter assesses whether executive oversight of the Australian intelligence agencies is robust, stringent, and effective. The chapter first sets out the six Australian intelligence agencies and their functions. It then sets out the executive bodies that oversee those agencies, including the Inspector-General of Security and the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor. These oversight mechanisms are categorized according to the functions they perform, such as authorizing the use of covert powers or reviewing legislation. The chapter then assesses the strengths and weaknesses of this oversight system. Although these oversight bodies have wide jurisdiction and strong investigative powers, their effectiveness is limited by the broad statutory powers granted to intelligence agencies and by the reluctance of successive governments to accept their recommendations for change. The chapter concludes by suggesting some ways in which this system might be improved, including through stronger whistle-blower protections and ongoing review of counterterrorism laws.
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View more >This chapter assesses whether executive oversight of the Australian intelligence agencies is robust, stringent, and effective. The chapter first sets out the six Australian intelligence agencies and their functions. It then sets out the executive bodies that oversee those agencies, including the Inspector-General of Security and the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor. These oversight mechanisms are categorized according to the functions they perform, such as authorizing the use of covert powers or reviewing legislation. The chapter then assesses the strengths and weaknesses of this oversight system. Although these oversight bodies have wide jurisdiction and strong investigative powers, their effectiveness is limited by the broad statutory powers granted to intelligence agencies and by the reluctance of successive governments to accept their recommendations for change. The chapter concludes by suggesting some ways in which this system might be improved, including through stronger whistle-blower protections and ongoing review of counterterrorism laws.
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Book Title
Global Intelligence Oversight: Governing Security in the Twenty-First Century
Subject
Criminology not elsewhere classified