Security Bill Expands ASIO Questioning Warrants, Removes Sunset Clause

A sunset clause is a built-in expiry date that forces parliament to revisit extraordinary powers and decide whether they should continue. 

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (R) and Director-General of ASIO Mike Burgess speak to the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia on Aug. 26, 2025. Behind them stand Reece Kershaw (L), commissioner of the Australian Federal Police, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. AAP Image/Lukas Coch

A new bill that will grant Australia’s domestic spy agency permanent access to compulsory questioning powers has passed the lower house of the federal parliament.

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2025 contains major reforms to Division 3 of Part III of the ASIO Act—the section that allows ASIO to compel people to appear and answer questions under a warrant.