Moreland Community Legal Centre Inc

Current Campaigns

Anti-Terrorism Laws
State and Federal governments have passed anti-terrorism laws but many people are unaware of the possible effects these laws will have. They are also unaware that these laws are currently being reviewed.

The Federation of Community Legal Centres would like to assist people to understand the laws and to participate in the review. Community Legal Centres (CLC's) can arrange for people to speak to members of your community or organisation and can provide legal advice to those in your community that have been or are fearful of being directly affected by the laws.

Summary of the Laws

• 'Terrorist Act' is very broadly defined.
• The Government has the power to ban an organisation if it comes under the braod definition of 'terrorist organisation'.
• It is an offence to be 'associated' with a terrorist organisation.
• ASIO has given broad powers to compulsorily question or detain a person suspected of having information related to 'terrorism'.
• Persons detained or compulsorily questioned by ASIO have only limited rights to legal representation.
• Persons detained or compulsorily questioned by ASIO have no right to silence - they are required by law to answer all questions asked.
• ASIO's powersto detain or compulsorily question are cloaked in secrecy - it is an offence for anyone to discuss the use of such powers for two years after they are used.

More detailed information about the laws is available from www.civilrightsnetwork.org or www.amcran.org