Parliament splits as senators block extension of ASIO's compulsory questioning powers

Last week the Senate voted on a bill to extend and widen ASIO’s compulsory questioning powers, a tool that allows the agency to compel answers from anyone over 14 after obtaining a warrant from the attorney-general. While the legislation was approved after Labor and the Coalition added a three-year sunset provision, a coalition of dissenting senators—including Liberal Alex Antic, One Nation’s Malcolm Roberts, and Greens members such as David Shoebridge—voted against it, warning that it threatens civil liberties.

The proposal also broadened the categories of threats covered, adding politically motivated violence, sabotage and communal violence, though minors remain limited to political violence inquiries. ASIO argued the powers are used sparingly—only 20 times in more than two decades—and are vital for addressing growing radicalisation, particularly among youth. Critics highlighted the secrecy surrounding the questioning process and the lack of a permanent sunset clause as dangerous precedents. The final bill retained a sunset clause, requiring parliamentary renewal in three years, after intense debate over its necessity and scope.