Media Releases

Fourth Quarter 2011

16 November 2011 - Statement on Memorandum of Understanding on Combating Crime
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and the United States Ambassador to Australia Jeffrey L. Bleich, on behalf of the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding boosting bilateral cooperation in the fight against transnational crime.

15 November 2011 - Fourth Malaysia-Australia working group on people smuggling wraps up
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has welcomed the outcomes of the fourth meeting of the Malaysia-Australia Working Group on People Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons, which finished today.

15 November 2011 - Public comment sought on foreign bribery laws
The Gillard Government has asked industry and the public for their views on changing Australia’s anti-foreign bribery laws to remove the facilitation payments defence..

14 November 2011 - Cocaine seizure a victory against organised crime
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has congratulated Australian law enforcement authorities on the seizure overnight of 300 kilograms of cocaine from a yacht at Bundaberg, Queensland.

14 November 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Christmas Island today.

11 November 2011 - Police Ministers agree to national domestic and family violence orders scheme
Attorney-General Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the agreement of State and Territory Police Ministers to support a new nationally coordinated scheme for domestic and family violence orders (DVOs).

11 November 2011 - Call for national crackdown on synthetic drugs
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today called for a consistent national approach to policing and, where necessary, banning synthetic drugs.

11 November 2011 - Comprehensive approach to organised crime delivers results
More than $41 million in criminal assets, including luxury cars and a plane, have been confiscated under the Gillard Government’s coordinated approach to tackling organised crime, Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor said today.

8 November 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island today.

8 November 2011 - Community eyes help Customs Watch
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today launched Customs Watch, a dedicated hotline for both industry and members of the public to report suspicious activities to Customs and Border Protection.

8 November 2011 - First National Threat Assessment on money laundering threats and responses released
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched AUSTRAC’s first National Threat Assessment (NTA) on money laundering, outlining the threats to business and government from transnational crime.

6 November 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Storm Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, detected and then boarded a Suspected Irregular Entry Vessel south east of Ashmore Islands today.

6 November 2011 - International experts converge to discuss money laundering and counter-terrorism financing in Sydney
International experts will meet in Sydney tomorrow for the opening of the 2011 Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) Conference.

4 November 2011 - Extra time for submissions on serious invasions of privacy
Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today extended the deadline for submissions on a proposed statutory cause of action for serious invasions of privacy, following requests for more time from several organisations.

4 November 2011 - R18+ one step closer with release of guidelines
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today released the proposed Guidelines for the introduction of Australia’s new adult category for computer games.

2 November 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Storm Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Island today.

1 November 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island today.

31 October 2011 - Information Commissioner's first Annual Report marks FOI reform anniversary
Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today tabled the inaugural Annual Report for the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), on the eve of the first anniversary of the Gillard Government’s sweeping overhaul of Freedom of Information laws.

30 October 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maryborough, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel south west of Browse Island today.

27 October 2011 - Drug arrest highlights effectiveness of cooperation
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today congratulated Australian law enforcement agencies for disrupting an alleged organised crime syndicate with strong international links, following the seizure of 55 kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine (commonly called ice).

25 October 2011 - Reducing Crime in Burswood
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and Senator Mark Bishop today delivered on the commitment of $100,000 to improve safety and security at and around Burswood train station.

25 October 2011 - Safer streets for Fremantle
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Fremantle Melissa Parke today announced Gillard Government funding of $149,000 to improve safety and security in Fremantle.

25 October 2011 - 2011 National Anti-Crime Award Winners Announced
Seven ground-breaking projects which have substantially reduced local crime rates have been honoured in the 2011 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards (ACVPA) at Parliament House, Canberra.

23 October 2011 - Border Protection Command assists two vessels overnight
HMAS Pirie has provided assistance to a vessel north of Christmas Island overnight which was initially detected by a RAAF P3 surveillance aircraft.

22 October 2011 - Border Protection Command Boards Vessel
ACV Hervey Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel west of Ashmore Islands today.

21 October 2011 - Greater transparency in Australia's anti-dumping system
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the tabling of the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service Annual Report 2010-11, which demonstrates implementation of measures to support greater transparency in Australia’s anti-dumping system.

19 October 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel overnight
Border Protection Command has provided help to a vessel that sought assistance north-east of Scott Reef overnight.

17 October 2011 - More funding to fight slavery and labour trafficking
The Gillard Government has stepped up the fight against labour trafficking, granting more than $485,000 in funding for five organisations to combat slavery and human trafficking in Australia.

16 October 2011 - Launch of identity fraud awareness survey
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched a survey which helps people gauge how well they protect their identity, to coincide with National Identity Fraud Awareness Week.

13 October 2011 - Australian Crime Commission identifies new criminal targets
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the tabling of the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) Annual Report 2010–11, which shows that the ACC disrupted 34 criminal groups and identified more than 50 previously unknown criminal targets last financial year.

13 October 2011 - Strengthening Australia's anti-dumping system
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the passage through Parliament of the first stage of the Gillard Government’s improvements to Australia’s anti-dumping system.

12 October 2011 - Legislation introduced to ensure continued access to mobile phone and online computer games
Mobile phone game apps and online games will continue to be available to Australians while a review of the national classification regime is completed under legislation introduced to Parliament today by Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor.

10 October 2011 - $1.5 million to prevent crime in local communities across Australia
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan Connor today announced $1.5 million in funding for Neighbourhood Watch Australasia for a historic expansion of its work in preventing crime and the fear of crime in Australian communities.

7 October 2011 - FOI charges regime to be reviewed
The Australian Information Commissioner will review the fees and charges regime for Freedom of Information requests, Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor announced today.

6 October 2011 - New partnership to improve access to Australia’s anti-dumping system
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor and Member for Port Adelaide Mark Butler today welcomed a new partnership between the Australian Government and industry that will improve access to the anti-dumping system for Australian businesses.

1 October 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Albany, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island today.

Third Quarter 2011

30 September 2011 - Government welcomes release of discussion paper on classification scheme
The Gillard Government today welcomed the release of the Australian Law Reform Commission’s Discussion Paper for the National Classification Scheme Review.

29 September 2011 - Inaugural appointments to Information Advisory Committee announced
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced the first appointments to the new Information Advisory Committee.

29 September 2011 - Honouring sacrifice on National Police Rememberance Day
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today praised the courage and dedication of Australia’s police officers on National Police Remembrance Day.

29 September 2011 - Donald McDonald reappointed as Classification Board Director
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced that Mr Donald McDonald AC has been reappointed as the Director of the Classification Board.

28 September 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Albany, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island today.

23 September 2011 - Updated passenger numbers for vessel
The passenger numbers for the suspected irregular entry vessel which was intercepted by HMAS Albany this morning have been revised.

23 September 2011 - Issues Paper on serious invasions of privacy released
Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today released an Issues Paper discussing the Australian Law Reform Commission’s proposal for legislation to allow Australians to take civil legal action if their privacy has been seriously invaded.

23 September 2011 - Border Protection Command boards two vessels overnight
Overnight, Australian authorities have gone to the assistance of one vessel in international waters and Border Protection Command has intercepted another vessel inside Australia’s contiguous zone.

22 September 2011 - Proceeds of crime to be used to fight corruption
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced that more than $700,000 in confiscated proceeds of crime will be used to fight corruption by developing and implementing Australia’s first National Anti-Corruption Plan.

21 September 2011 - Ministerial Statement - Streamlining Australia's anti-dumping system
The Government believes that our Nation’s best days are ahead and is working to keep the Australian economy strong.

16 September 2011 - APS Reform Program - Review of the Senior Executive Service
Acting Special Minister of State for the Public Service and Integrity Brendan O’Connor today released a report on a review of the Senior Executive Service (SES) by Mr Roger Beale AO, Principal, PwC.

16 September 2011 - Minister congratulates Customs, AFP on major cocaine bust
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has congratulated the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) on what is estimated to be the fifth largest seizure of cocaine in Australian history.

16 September 2011 - Keeping pace with new digital cinema system
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched a new 2D and 3D digital cinema system to streamline the classification of films by the Classification Board.

14 September 2011 - Report shows partnerships critical in detecting serious crimes
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released a new report highlighting the vital role that businesses and Australian Government agencies play in disrupting criminal activity within the international financial environment.

29 August 2011 - Government takes action to implement anti-dumping improvements
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today addressed the inaugural meeting of the International Trade Remedies Forum, which was established to oversee the implementation of improvements to Australia’s anti-dumping system.

28 August 2011 - AIC cyberfraud study highlights impact on victims
Older people are much more vulnerable to cyberfraud scams, with the over 55 age group accounting for four out of 10 victims, a study released today by the Australian Institute of Criminology has found.

19 August 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island today.

18 August 2011 - Committee Report on Cybercrime Legislation Amendment Bill
Attorney-General Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the report from the Joint Standing Committee on Cyber Safety into the Government’s Cybercrime Legislation Amendment Bill 2011.

12 August 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Albany, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Christmas Island today.

11 August 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-east of Christmas Island today.

10 August 2011 - NSW agrees to R18+ classification for computer games
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the decision by NSW to join all jurisdictions in agreeing to create - for the first time - an adult category for computer games in Australia.

7 August 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Albany, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island this morning.

5 August 2011 - Minister appoints acting Trade Review Measures Officer
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced the appointment of Stephen Skehill as acting Trade Measures Review Officer.

2 August 2011 - A helping hand for Lismore's Indigenous youth
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Page Janelle Saffin today announced $100,000 funding for projects to support young Indigenous people in Goonellabah.

2 August 2011 - Crime prevention projects keep Kyogle safe
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Page Janelle Saffin today announced $70,000 funding for crime prevention programs in Kyogle.

2 August 2011 - Supporting a safer Richmond Valley
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and the Member for Page Janelle Saffin today announced $76,000 funding for two crime prevention projects in Richmond Valley.

2 August 2011 - New federal police dog kennel to increase airport safety
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor and Member for Richmond Justine Elliot have today opened the Australian Federal Police’s new dedicated canine kennel facility at Murwillumbah.

1 August 2011 - SmartGate trial to streamline trans-Tasman travel
New Zealand Minister for Customs Maurice Williamson and Australian Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the launch of the SmartGate trans-Tasman trial.

31 July 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Scott Reef this morning.

29 July 2011 - A national protocol for investigating cyber crime
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed State and Territory endorsement of a national protocol for policing cyber crime.

27 July 2011 - Businesses alerted to hacking risk
Attorney-General Robert McClelland and Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today said the arrest of a man over hacking charges should serve as a reminder to Australian business to protect themselves from cyber crime.

24 July 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bundaberg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Islands last night.

22 July 2011 - Agreement on R18+ classification for computer games
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed in-principle agreement by Classification Ministers to create - for the first time - an adult category for computer games in Australia.

22 July 2011 - National co-operation on match fixing laws
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed agreement by the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General to consider a consistent national approach to criminal laws relating to match fixing.

21 July 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bathurst, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island late last night.

21 July 2011 - A right to privacy in Australia
The Minister for Privacy Brendan O’Connor today announced the Gillard Government will seek the views of the public on introducing a right to privacy in Australia.

20 July 2011 - One million sea cargo x-rays help protect Australia
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today joined with Customs and Border Protection staff to celebrate the one millionth x-ray of a sea cargo container arriving in Australia.

19 July 2011 - CCTV funding for Ipswich City Council
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Blair Shayne Neumann today announced $250,000 of Safer Suburbs funding for Ipswich City Council.

19 July 2011 - Ipswich to benefit from action to stop dumping
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor and Member for Blair Shayne Neumann today met with workers from aluminium supplier Capral to discuss how the Gillard Government’s anti-dumping and countervailing reforms will support local industry and jobs in Ipswich.

15 July 2011 - Indigenous youth mentoring program commended
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor and the Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek today commended the Tribal Warrior Association for its continued indigenous youth mentoring work during their visit to the organisation in Sydney.

13 July 2011 - 53 new criminal targets identified in Fusion's first year
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the first anniversary of the National Criminal Intelligence Fusion Capability and released an unclassified report highlighting some of the key outcomes delivered by Fusion so far.

13 July 2011 - Commonwealth discusses greater cooperation on cyber crime
Attorney General Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today discussed Australia’s experience in combating cyber crime with First Law Officers from more than 40 countries at the Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting (CLMM) being held in Sydney.

12 July 2011 - Strengthening ties with Malaysia to improve maritime security
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Malaysia and Australia to help strengthen maritime security.

8 July 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bundaberg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel south east of Christmas Island this afternoon.

8 July 2011 - Improved process for age determination in people smuggling matters
The Gillard Government today announced stronger processes to help determine the age of individuals detained in Australia suspected of people smuggling.

6 July 2011 - Legislation to help improve Australia's anti-dumping system
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today introduced legislation to Parliament to kick off the first stage of the Gillard Government’s improvements to the anti-dumping system.

6 July 2011 - International crime cooperation to be boosted with new laws
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today introduced to Parliament the Extradition and Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Legislation Amendment Bill 2011.

4 July 2011 - Using technology to stop drug couriers at our airports
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says legislation passed by Parliament today will enable internal body scanning technology to be used at airports to stop drug couriers.

1 July 2011 - SmartGate opens to Darwin travellers
Darwin International Airport has become the eighth and final Australian international airport to receive SmartGate.

1 July 2011 - National Archives guide for researchers of the Northern Territory's past
The Minister for Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today announced the release of a new guide to the historical records of the Northern Territory by the National Archives of Australia.

Second Quarter 2011

30 June 2011 - Minister applauds Northern Territory Agency for Indigenous Prisoner Through-Care project
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today commended the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA) for its continued prisoner through-care work during his visit to the Agency in Darwin. 

27 June 2011 - Exposure to domestic violence a form of child abuse
A new Australian Institute of Criminology report that says witnessing domestic violence should be recognised as a form of child abuse show the Gillard Government’s reforms to the family law system are critical to the safety of children.

26 June 2011 - Record drug seizures in the last 12 months
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has today welcomed the hard work of law enforcement agencies, including the Australian Federal Police, to seize illegal drugs.

24 June 2011 - Australian Government agencies assist vessel
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority coordinated the assistance of a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island early this morning.

23 June 2011 - Stopping people smuggling by stopping the cash flow
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the passage of new laws to help stem the flow of money for people smuggling ventures, as well as other serious crimes.

22 June 2011 - Government combats dumping and helps support local jobs
The Gillard Government will make the most important improvements to Australia’s anti-dumping regime in more than a decade to improve its effectiveness, while re-affirming Australia’s commitment to world trading rules.

22 June 2011 - Stronger laws to tackle cybercrime
The Gillard Government will today introduce legislation to strengthen cyber security laws and enhance Australia’s ability to combat international cybercrime.

17 June 2011 - New study finds Centrelink leads the way to stop fraud
Minister for Justice Brendan O'Connor and Minister for Human Services Tanya Plibersek say a study released today shows that Centrelink is amongst world leaders in stopping welfare fraud.

15 June 2011 - Eleven men charged in national child abuse investigation
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has congratulated the Australian Federal Police for helping to combat online child abuse by charging eleven suspects.

13 June 2011 - Austal announced as Cape Class patrol boat preferred tenderer
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced the preferred tenderer to build the next generation of patrol boats to secure Australia’s borders.

10 June 2011 - Dead or Alive: Dimensions classification revoked
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor welcomed the Classification Board’s decision today to revoke the classification of the computer game Dead or Alive: Dimensions.

10 June 2011 - Australian Crime Commission receives bronze for annual report
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has congratulated the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) for winning a bronze award in the 2011 Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA), which celebrate excellence in reporting standards.

10 June 2011 - Six years jail for money launderer
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor, has congratulated Commonwealth agencies on dismantling and locking up a multi-million dollar money laundering operation.

8 June 2011 - More than $30 million of drugs taken off Australian streets
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor congratulates the Australian Crime Commission on the shutdown of one of the largest clandestine laboratories ever discovered in Australia.

7 June 2011 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel south-east of Christmas Island today.

7 June 2011 - Project to re-engage young people with their community
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Franklin Julie Collins today launched the YSTART project in Kingborough, Tasmania.

7 June 2011 - Making Clarence safer
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Franklin Julie Collins today announced $80,000 of Safer Suburbs funds for more lighting in public spaces in the City of Clarence.

7 June 2011 - Making Kingborough safer
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Franklin Julie Collins today announced $145,000 of Safer Suburbs funding for the Kingborough Council, as part of the Gillard Government’s commitment to reducing crime and the fear of crime in the community. 

6 June 2011 - Making Launceston safer through sport
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Bass Geoff Lyons today announced $250,000 for a Launceston project using sport to boost public safety and prevent crime.

4 June 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north, north west of Christmas Island today.

3 June 2011 - Connecting schools to spread the message on cyber safety
As part of National Cyber Safety Awareness Week, the Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor will today launch Connecting Classrooms – the latest stage of the highly successful ThinkUKnow cyber safety initiative.

1 June 2011 - Locking up organised crime
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice, Brendan O’Connor, has today welcomed the Organised Crime in Prisons Roundtable, hosted by the Australian Crime Commission (ACC).

30 May 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Botany Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Reef today.

28 May 2011 - International cooperation exposes cocaine syndicate in Australia
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says co-operation between Australian and international law enforcement is stronger than ever in the fight against organised crime, highlighted by action overnight against a major cocaine drug syndicate.

27 May 2011 - Dr John Bannon to help lead National Archives
The Minister for Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today appointed the Hon Dr John Bannon AO as Chair of the National Archives of Australia Advisory Council. 

25 May 2011 - Draft R18+ computer game guidelines released
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today released draft guidelines that would support the introduction of an R18+ classification for computer games.

25 May 2011 - Reuniting families with missing children
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor has today called on Australians to help find the 20, 000 children that are reported missing each year.

23 May 2011 - Historic homecoming for Griffin drawing
For the first time in a century one of the drawings that won Walter Burley Griffin the Federal Capital Design Competition is being reunited with the other competition drawings.

17 May 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Larrakia, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Islands late last night.

16 May 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bathurst, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Christmas Island this afternoon.

14 May 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Scott Reef today.

10 May 2011 - Strengthening our borders through regional co-operation
The Gillard Government will continue to invest to protect our national borders and continue the ongoing fight against people smuggling in the 2011-12 Budget.

10 May 2011 - Working smarter to prevent crime
The Australian Federal Police, Crime Stoppers Australia and other authorities will receive additional resources to assist with crime prevention in the 2011-12 Budget.

7 May 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Broome, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island this afternoon.

6 May 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Launceston, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Broome yesterday afternoon.

5 May 2011 - Progress update on consideration of anti-dumping laws
The Government is continuing its work to make sure Australia has a world class anti-dumping and countervailing system.

4 May 2011 - Study finds that acohol leads to weekend assaults
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released a new study that shows alcohol is a major contributor to offences committed on weekends.

3 May 2011 - Making Cranebrook safer
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today congratulated Penrith City Council on the completion of an important community safety project, funded by the Gillard Government’s Safer Suburbs plan.

3 May 2011 - Making Penrith safer
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today delivered $200,000 for community safety projects to the Penrith City Council, as part of the Gillard Government’s Safer Suburbs initiative.

3 May 2011 - Privacy: It's all about you
The Minister for Privacy Brendan O’Connor today encouraged Australians to be alert to the ways they can protect their privacy, especially in the online world.

29 April 2011 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
HMAS Albany, operating under the direction of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, assisted and boarded a vessel north west of Ashmore Islands yesterday.

29 April 2011 - Huge drop in illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today applauded the dramatic drop in illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters over recent years.

22 April 2011 - Interceptions in Australian waters
HMAS Armidale, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Christmas Island this morning.

21 April 2011 - Appointment to the Australian Law Reform Commission for review of the National Classification Scheme
Attorney-General Robert McClelland today announced the appointment of Professor Terry Flew to the Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC).

21 April 2011 - Ill-gotten gains being used to help cut Kangaroo Island road toll
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced more than $63,000 under the Proceeds of Crime Act fund to help cut the road toll on Kangaroo Island in South Australia.

20 April 2011 - Adult only computer game category to benefit SA families
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today called on South Australia to back the Gillard Government’s proposal to introduce an R18+ video game classification.

18 April 2011 - South Australians urged to Know Before You Go
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today urged South Australians to know what they can legally bring back to Australia before heading overseas this Easter.

17 April 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Armidale, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island this afternoon.

15 April 2011 - New report shows that money is the lifeblood of organised crime
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor will today launch the Australian Crime Commission’s Organised Crime in Australia report at Federation Square in Melbourne.

14 April 2011 - Victorians asked to Know Before You Go
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today urged Victorians to know what they can legally bring back to Australia before heading overseas this Easter.

13 April 2011 - Queenslanders asked to Know Before You Go
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today urged Queenslanders to know what they can legally bring back to Australia before heading overseas this Easter.

13 April 2011 - National action to clean up illegal drug labs
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Queensland Police Minister Neil Roberts today launched new national guidelines on remediating sites used to manufacture illicit drugs.

12 April 2011 - R18+ video game category will secure jobs for the future
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today emphasised the Government’s strong support for the Australian game design industry while meeting students at the University of Ballarat.

12 April 2011 - Making Ballarat safer
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today delivered $100,000 for community safety measures in Ballarat, as part of the Gillard Government’s Safer Suburbs program.

12 April 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Bathurst, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel east of Christmas Island this morning.

10 April 2011 - Unity Cup celebrates cultural diversity through footy
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor will today launch the fourth annual Unity Cup, celebrating cultural diversity.

9 April 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS GLENELG, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island yesterday afternoon.

7 April 2011 - Gillard Government welcomes Indonesian people smuggling laws
The Gillard Government today welcomed the passage of legislation in Indonesia’s Parliament to criminalise the terrible crime of people smuggling.

6 April 2011 - So you ThinkUKnow about cyber safety?
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today launched the next phase of the highly successful ThinkUKnow cyber safety project – a space just for young people.

6 April 2011 - Crime fighting CCTV for Devonport hot spots
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and Member for Braddon Sid Sidebottom today announced $250,000 for new closed circuit television cameras in and around Devonport.

4 April 2011 - Taking action to stop fraud against Commonwealth agencies
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched new measures to help Commonwealth agencies prevent and combat fraud.

1 April 2011 - Minister launches Hume youth diversion project
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched the Hume Youth Assistance and Referral Team project, a youth diversion program funded under the Proceeds of Crime Act fund.

First Quarter 2011

30 March 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Ashmore Guardian, opertaing under the control of Border Protection Command intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Island today.

30 March 2011 - Tougher aviation laws hit the statute books today
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed tougher laws against aviation crimes such as bomb hoaxes and endangering an aircraft in flight.

29 March 2011 - Securing our skies
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today highlighted the Government’s recent achievements in strengthening Australia’s aviation security and commitment to maintaining a world-class aviation security regime. 

29 March 2011 - Preventing the financing of terrorism through Iran
The Minister for Foreign Affairs Kevin Rudd and the Minister  for Justice Brendan O'Connor today began consultation on measures to stop money  laundering and terrorism financing in Iran.

25 March 2011 - Minister marks International Day of Remembrance of Slavery Victims
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor has announced that expressions of interest are being called for a $200 000 grant to raise awareness of labour trafficking in Australia.

24 March 2011 - Review of National Classification Scheme starts
The Gillard Government today launched a comprehensive review of the National Classification Scheme to be conducted by the Australian Law Reform Commission.

23 March 2011 - Legislation to back new criminal asset taskforce
The Gillard Government today introduced legislation to Parliament to boost the confiscation of criminal assets and attack the financial core of organised crime.

23 March 2011 - Strengthening export cargo security
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today introduced legislation to Parliament to boost security at ports, airports and cargo storage facilities.

21 March 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel east of Ashmore Islands this morning.

17 March 2011 - Combatting drug trafficking and terrorism in our region
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today presented the Indonesian Directorate General of Customs and Excise with detector that can pick up traces of explosives and narcotics.

17 March 2011 - Boosting regional maritime safety and security
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today discussed two initiatives in Indonesia to help boost maritime safety and security in the region.

16 March 2011 - Australia strengthens law enforcement links with Indonesia
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says the construction of three high-speed patrol boats for the Indonesian National Police is well underway, as part of support from the Gillard Government to help tackle people smuggling in the region.

16 March 2011 - Memorandum of Understanding to fight drug trafficking
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today presided over the signing of a new agreement between Australian and Indonesian law enforcement agencies to tackle transnational drug trafficking.

15 March 2011 - Australia and Malaysia working to combat transnational crime
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced Australia’s intention to donate further resources to Malaysia to help fight transnational crime, including people smuggling and terrorism.

14 March 2011 - AFP to host Malaysian authorities to improve airport security
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced that the Australian Federal Police will host a delegation from the Royal Malaysian Police to share knowledge about international airport policing.

12 March 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Arnhem Bay operating under the control of Border Protection Command, today intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Broome, Western Australia.

10 March 2011 - Illegally imported tobacco seized at Brisbane Port
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today revealed more than 2.5 million illegally imported counterfeit cigarettes have been seized by Customs and Border Protection in Brisbane.

10 March 2011 - Newest weapon in the fight against organised crime
The Attorney-General Robert McClelland and the Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor will today launch the latest weapon in the fight against organised crime

8 March 2011 - Lotteries and work from home scams hit Aussies
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched a new report that reveals the types of online scams that are defrauding Australians of their hard earned cash.

5 March 2011 - Customs and Border Protection Media Release - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Botany Bay operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel south west of Ashmore Island yesterday.

5 March 2011 - July will be crunch time for R18+ classification on computer games
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor says July will be the time for Classification Ministers to decide on introducing an R 18+ classification for computer games.

4 March 2011 - Customs and Border Protection Media Release - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Armidale operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel west of Christmas Island today.

2 March 2011 - Anti-dumping changes provide better protection for Australian industry
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today moved to make changes to laws governing the process for reviewing anti-dumping measures.

2 March 2011 - The highest recognition for our dedicated police officers
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor and Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister Kate Lundy today announced the creation of the National Police Service Medal.

26 February 2011 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
ACV Botany Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, assisted a vessel north of Ashmore Islands this morning.

25 February 2011 - Minister farewells 55 federal police departing for Christchurch
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor will today farewell 55 Australian Federal Police officers who are flying to Christchurch to help in the aftermath of the earthquake.

25 February 2011 - Shake your family tree today
The Minister for Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today opened the fourth annual Shake Your Family Tree event at the National Archives of Australia in Canberra.

23 February 2011 - Using technology to stop drug couriers at our airports
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says legislation has been introduced to Parliament today to enable internal body scanning technology to be used to stop drug couriers.

21 February 2011 - A shared vision of a world without human trafficking
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed a greater public focus on the transnational crime of human trafficking.

19 February 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Bathurst, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-east of Christmas Island late last night.

16 February 2011 - Breakthrough ACC intelligence pierces transnational drug syndicate
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today congratulated the Australian Crime Commission (ACC) and it’s state partner, NSW Police, on disrupting a transnational drug supply syndicate.

13 February 2011 - New home to be built for law enforcement puppies
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor will today turn the first sod for what will soon be the new home for 250 puppies training for law enforcement roles across the world.

11 February 2011 - New powers for law enforcement agencies to tackle organised crime
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the passage of legislation to help law enforcement agencies to fight serious and organised crime.

11 February 2011 - New dedicated police to patrol our airports
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today congratulated the first graduates of a new transition program to train dedicated aviation police officers.

10 February 2011 - Study of jurors shows judges get it right on criminal sentencing
Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed a new study showing that the more informed the public is about judicial decisions, the more likely they are to agree with criminal sentences.

10 February 2011 - Million dollar organised crime syndicate smashed
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today congratulated the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Crime Commission on dismantling a highly lucrative money laundering and tax evasion operation.

10 February 2011 - Legislation passed to help victims of identity crime
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the passage of legislation to better tackle identity theft and help victims to re-establish their lives.

10 February 2011 - Roundtable on credit reporting in Canberra today
The Minister for Privacy Brendan O’Connor will today host a Roundtable to discuss the development of a proposed new Code of Conduct for the Credit Reporting industry.

9 February 2011 - Safer skies for all Australians with passage of new laws
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the passage of tougher laws against aviation crimes such as bomb hoaxes and endangering an aircraft in flight.

9 February 2011 - Stopping people smuggling by stopping the money flow
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today introduced a Bill designed to help stem the flow of money for people smuggling ventures, as well as other serious crimes.

8 February 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

7 February 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Islands yesterday afternoon.

3 February 2011 - Land-based radar trial begins on Christmas Island
The trial of a radar surveillance system has begun on Christmas Island, progressing one of the key recommendations of the Customs Internal Review into the recent tragedy on the island.

1 February 2011 - Next step towards comprehensive credit reporting
Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today provided draft comprehensive credit reporting provisions to a Senate Committee for its review.

1 February 2011 - Tackling crime through international co-operation
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice, Brendan O’Connor, today invited the public to comment on proposed amendments to Australia’s extradition and mutual assistance laws.

24 January 2011 - Government response to Christmas Island tragedy recommendations
The Gillard Labor Government has today accepted all the recommendations of the Customs and Border Protection’s internal review into the Christmas Island tragedy.

9 January 2011 - Roundtable on Credit Reporting Code of Conduct
Minister for Privacy Brendan O’Connor today announced details of a roundtable meeting to discuss the development of a proposed new Credit Reporting Code of Conduct.

8 January 2011 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Larrakia, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a vessel east of the Ashmore Islands last night.

5 January 2011 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel west of Ashmore Islands last night.

4 January 2011 - Take the Smartgate option this holiday season
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor says the Gillard Government is helping to streamline travel for international passengers returning home this holiday season.

Fourth Quarter 2010

30 December 2010 - New year brings new access to Cabinet documents
Minister for Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor says he’ll be welcoming the new year by starting the process of granting public access to more Cabinet documents.

25 December 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Ashmore Islands early this morning.

23 December 2010 - New CrimTrac CEO appointed
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced the appointment of Douglas Smith as Chief Executive Officer of CrimTrac.

21 December 2010 - Renewal of Classification Board
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced the appointment of a new Deputy Director, Senior Classifier and five new members of the Classification Board.

21 December 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island this morning.

21 December 2010 - Bomb detection dogs hit the beat in Sydney
The Gillard Government’s newest weapon in the fight against aviation terrorism took to Sydney Airport today.

20 December 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Roebuck Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel south east of Ashmore Island yesterday evening.

16 December 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
Officers from HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-north-west of Ashmore Island this afternoon.

14 December 2010 - Minister opens Police Training Centre Chapel in Timor Leste
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today opened the Police Training Centre Chapel in Timor Leste - a gift from the Gillard Government.

14 December 2010 - Supporting Timor Leste to combat crime and build stability
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Timor Leste and Australia to help tackle transnational crime.

10 December 2010 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
ACV Triton, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Islands yesterday morning.

10 December 2010 - A national approach to tackling organised crime
Attorney-General Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today joined State and Territory Attorneys-General to launch the National Organised Crime Response Plan.

9 December 2010 - International counterparts restrict more video games to adults only
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released an international comparison of computer games, showing the difference between Australian ratings and those for the same gaming titles overseas.

9 December 2010 - Operation reminds us to watch out for credit card fraud this Christmas
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has congratulated law enforcement agencies on dismantling a syndicate accused of manufacturing and use of fraudulent credit cards.

9 December 2010 - Australian Crime Commission examiners appointed
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced that the Governor-General has appointed John Pritchard and reappointed Tim Sage as Australian Crime Commission examiners.

8 December 2010 - Final analysis shows huge support for R18+ computer game rating
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released the final analysis of feedback from the public on introducing an R18+ classification for video games.

8 December 2010 - Helping the Solomon Islands to combat money laundering
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor says  Australian and Solomon Islands authorities are working closely together to  combat money laundering across the region.

5 December 2010 - Three word slogan drops to two – but still no effective policy
Tony Abbott today began backpaddling on his three word slogan about irregular arrivals with a new two word slogan – but still no new policy.

5 December 2010 - An adult-only computer game classification to help protect our kids
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced that the Gillard Government will advocate for the introduction of an adult only classification for video games.

3 December 2010 - Don't let dangerous and illegal gifts ruin your Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner and the Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor is urging people to check import requirements before buying goods online from overseas.

2 December 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command,boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island late yesterday.

2 December 2010 - Global partnership key to stopping online child sex abuse
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today opened the fourth international Virtual Global Taskforce Conference in Sydney.

1 December 2010 - R18+ computer game classification review released
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released a review of existing research into whether people who play violent computer games are at greater risk of being aggressive.

30 November 2010 - Defence and Customs work for better understanding
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Department of Defence and Customs and Border Protection.

30 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maryborough, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

27 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Triton, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Island.

26 November 2010 - Border Protection Command boards vessels
Vessels operating under Border Protection Command have intercepted two vessels.

26 November 2010 - A comprehensive approach to tackling organised crime
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today launched the Commonwealth Organised Crime Response Plan in the next step in the offensive against organised crime.

25 November 2010 - Counterfeit crackdown yields results
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has congratulated the Australian Federal Police and the NSW Police Force on cracking a counterfeit currency syndicate.

24 November 2010 - A better justice system to combat human trafficking
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today kicked off discussion about possible reforms to Australia’s criminal law on slavery and servitude.

24 November - $1.6 million investment in the fight against human trafficking
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has announced another $1.6 million will be invested in tackling human trafficking including sex and labour exploitation.

19 November 2010 - Stopping drug trafficking at every level
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today congratulated law enforcement agencies on a successful operation targeting illicit drugs being sent through the mail.

19 November 2010 - Call today and Say Something about amphetamine dealing
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today called on people with information on illicit drug making and selling to call Crime Stoppers TODAY.

19 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Island yesterday evening.

19 November 2010 - Australia leading anti-human trafficking action
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released the second annual report of the Gillard Government’s Anti-People Trafficking Interdepartmental Committee.

17 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Larrakia, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

16 November 2010 - Partnership with Indonesia to boost maritime safety and security
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced that Australia has donated a new maritime radio communication system to Indonesia to help it combat maritime threats and transnational crime.

12 November 2010 - Human trafficking from SE Asia underreported
In a report released today by the Australian Institute of Criminology, researchers found that reluctance of trafficked persons to report to authorities suggests that a number of cases may go unidentified.

12 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
Officers from ACV Triton, operating under the control of Border Protection Command,boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Islands yesterday afternoon.

11 November 2010 - Consultation on plans to strengthen money transfer sector
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today invited comment on proposals to strengthen the regulation of businesses providing international cash transfer services.

10 November 2010 - Crackdown on prohibited weapons
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today announced a crackdown on the importation of prohibited weapons into Australia.

10 November 2010 - Trans-Tasman trade study supports Single Economic Market initiatives
Brendan O’Connor, the Minister for Home Affairs and Maurice Williamson, Minister of Customs in New Zealand welcomed the release today of the first Trans-Tasman Time Release Study (TRS), conducted as a joint project by Customs and Border Protection with the New Zealand Customs Service.

9 November 2010 - Delivering safer communities
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today confirmed that the Government was delivering on election commitments of more than $5 million to make Australian communities safer, following the release of the Government’s Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook for 2010-11.

9 November 2010 - Minister opens new Dampier Customs office
Brendan O’Connor, Minister for Home Affairs and Justice, today officially opened the new Customs and Border Protection office in Dampier, Western Australia.

9 November 2010 - Exposing the hidden crime of labour trafficking
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today released an Australian Institute of Criminology report that shows labour trafficking is under reported.

8 November 2010 - Customs and Border Protection boards vessel
Officers from the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service last night boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Middle Osborn Island, Western Australia.

8 November 2010 - Say Something and stop crime on November 19 - Call 1800 333 000
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today called on people to say something to Crime Stoppers if they know about the manufacture and dealing of amphetamines.

7 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Armidale, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Christmas Island this morning.

5 November 2010 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Larrakia, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel at Browse Island.

3 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessels
ACV Ocean Protector, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels north of Christmas Island this evening.

2 November 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessels
ACV Ocean Protector, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels off Christmas Island this afternoon.

1 November 2010 - Minister congratulates AFP and Customs on major heroin bust
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has congratulated the Australian Federal Police and Customs and Border Protection on the fifth largest seizure of heroin in Australia.

1 November 2010 - New era of freedom of information starts today
Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the start of extensive changes to Australia’s freedom of information laws.

29 October 2010 - First meeting of the new Firearms Advisory Council
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed today’s first meeting of the new Commonwealth Firearms Advisory Council at Parliament House in Canberra.

29 October 2010 - Inaugural FOI Commissioner appointed
Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor today announced Australia’s first Freedom of Information Commissioner will be Dr James Popple.

28 October 2010 - National anti-crime award winners announced
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today paid tribute to ground-breaking crime prevention projects at the 2010 Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards.

28 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Islands.

27 October 2010 - Fees for Freedom of Information requests to be slashed
In Parliament today, Minister for Privacy and Freedom of Information Brendan O’Connor announced plans to abolish application fees and cut processing charges for FOI requests.

27 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Christmas Island last night.

24 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Christmas Island this afternoon.

23 October 2010 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, assisted a vessel 220 nautical miles east of Ashmore Islands yesterday evening.

22 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Ashmore Islands yesterday evening.

21 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

18 October 2010 - Passengers reminded to declare illegal pornography
Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor says changes have been made to incoming passenger cards making clear the need to declare illegal pornography when entering Australia

18 October 2010 - AUSTRAC taking enforcement action to help tackle  serious crime
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O'Connor  today welcomed enforcement action by the Australian Transaction Reports and  Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC).

15 October 2010 - Regional action to tackle people smuggling
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has welcomed strong action by law enforcement agencies across the South East Asian region to combat people smuggling.

14 October 2010 - Minister congratulates AFP and Customs on major cocaine haul
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has congratulated the Australian Federal Police and Customs and Border Protection on the seizure of almost half a tonne of cocaine.

13 October 2010 - Changing the Tune for Lismore youth
The Minister for Justice Brendan O’Connor and the Member for Page Janelle Saffin today announced $150,000 for the Changing the Tune youth project in Lismore.

13 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island early this morning.

13 October 2010 - Protecting our borders from corruption
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today tabled the Gillard Government’s response to a recommendation to expand the role of the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity (ACLEI).

11 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bundaberg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

11 October 2010 - Minister farewells AFP officers bound for Afghanistan
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today farewelled 16 Australian Federal Police officers bound for Afghanistan.

9 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bundaberg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel off Flying Fish Cove at Christmas Island early this morning.

8 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bundaberg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

8 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
Officers from ACV Corio Bay intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Scott Reef last night.

7 October 2010 - Crime fighting canines to protect Australian airports
Five more Australian Federal Police firearm and explosive detection dog teams will soon be patrolling Australia’s airports, after graduating from a rigorous training course today.

4 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Armidale, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Christmas Island early this morning.

2 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Islands yesterday afternoon.

1 October 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Islands early this morning.

Third Quarter 2010

30 September 2010 - Strengthening the Crime Commission to fight organised crime
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the introduction to the Senate of a Bill to help law enforcement agencies to fight serious and organised crime.

29 September 2010 - A time to remember the sacrifice of our police
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has paid tribute to the sacrifice of Australia’s police officers on National Police Remembrance Day.

29 September 2010 - Tackling identity crime with stronger laws
The Gillard Government today introduced legislation to better tackle identity theft and help the victims of these distressing crimes.

29 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Ararat, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Islands this afternoon.

29 September 2010 - Strengthening aviation security
The Gillard Government today introduced legislation to Parliament to create tougher penalties for aviation-related crimes to enhance the safety of Australians in our skies.

29 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
The Minister for Home Affairs and Justice Brendan O’Connor has paid tribute to the sacrifice of Australia’s police officers on National Police Remembrance Day.

20 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
Customs and Border Protection officers boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Christmas Island this afternoon.

14 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maryborough, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island.

6 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Launceston, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Ashmore Islands this morning.

3 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

1 September 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island this morning.

31 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

28 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island this morning.

27 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Pirie, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Scott Reef this morning.

22 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Bundaberg, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Scott Reef this afternoon.

22 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Triton, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Ashmore Islands late yesterday.

19 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vesesel north of Christmas Island overnight.

18 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night baorded a suspected irregular entry vesesel north west of Christmas Island.

14 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island.

10 August 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, today intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north east of Christmas Island.

29 July 2010 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
Customs and Border Protection Command has rescued a distressed vessel approximately 85 nautical miles north west of Christmas Island.

21 July 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Broome, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, this evening intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island.

21 July 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Broome, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, this morning intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island.

17 July 2010 - A uniform standard for forensic testing across Australia
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says $454,000 will be invested in developing national forensic testing standards for Australia.

16 July 2010 - Strengthening the fight against money laundering and people smuggling
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today detailed proposed measures to stop international funds transfer services being used to fund people smuggling and serious crime.

16 July 2010 - New Firearms Advisory Council
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced a new Commonwealth Firearms Advisory Council, replacing the Sporting Shooters and Firearms Advisory Council.

14 July 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Maryborough, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Browse Island this morning.

14 July 2010 - Outcomes of the Pacific Ministers’ meeting on fisheries and law enforcement
A landmark meeting of Pacific Island Fisheries and Law Enforcement Ministers, hosted by the Gillard Government, concluded today with positive outcomes achieved to protect regional fish stocks, underpinned by regional cooperation of law enforcement and fisheries management agencies.

13 July 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Holdfast Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, last night intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north west of Ashmore Islands.

13 July 2010 0 Federal law enforcers stop drugs and save lives
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today congratulated federal law enforcement agencies that helped prevent 240 kilograms of cocaine from reaching Australian streets.

13 July 2010 - Launch of Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre
Attorney-General, Robert McClelland and Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today launched the new Criminal Intelligence Fusion Centre within the Australian Crime Commission.

12 July 2010 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
HMAS Albany assisted a suspected irregular entry vessel 230 nautical miles west of Darwin last night, within Australia’s search and rescue region under the Safety of Life at Sea Convention.

12 July 2010 - Bomb detection dogs to boost aviation and border security
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor has today visited the first class of Australian Federal Police detection dog teams to benefit from a $17.8 million boost.

8 July 2010 - Putting the pieces together in Bendigo
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor and Member for Bendigo Steve Gibbons today announced $135,000 for the St Luke’s Anglicare Putting the Pieces Together project.

7 July 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
ACV Triton, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel west of Ashmore Islands late yesterday.

4 July 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Glenelg operating under the control of Border Protection Command intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel last night, north west of Flying Fish Cove at Christmas Island.

4 July 2010 - National move to tackle crime in our gambling venues
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says work is now underway to enable nationwide enforcement of gambling exclusion orders.

2 July 2010 - Australian police ministers back National Youth Policing Model
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today joined with State and Territory Ministers to endorse a new national model for better tackling youth violence and anti-social behaviour.

2 July 2010 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, today located a suspected irregular entry vessel north of Christmas Island.

Second Quarter 2010

30 June 2010 - Australian Institute of Criminology Director reappointed
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced the reappointment of Dr Adam Tomison as Director of the Australian Institute of Criminology for the next four years.

29 June 2010 - Foreign fishers caught with shark fin in Australian waters
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says Border Protection Command today apprehended a foreign vessel suspected of illegally fishing in the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone.

29 June 2010 - Travellers alerted to new child sex tourism laws
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor will today launch new airport signage alerting the public to new laws that target Australians who travel overseas to sexually exploit children.

29 June 2010 - Report reveals criminal minds behind exploitation of businesses
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor will today release a new report that gives an insight into the ways that criminals launder funds and commit serious crimes in Australia.

26 June 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel east of Christmas Island this morning.

23 June 2010 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Wollongong, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel this morning.

23 June 2010 - $24.9 million to stop terrorists and criminals flying into Australia
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced the start of work to expand an airline passenger security system to better protect Australia from terrorists and criminals.

21 June 2010 - ANZAC spirit grows with Hebe plantings
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor will today join the New Zealand High Commissioner His Excellency Dr John Larkindale to plant the first of new varieties of plants to honour the ANZACs.

19 June 2010 - Eight new patrol boats to protect Australia’s borders
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor says the procurement process for eight new border protection patrol vessels has now begun.

18 June 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessels
Border Protection Command today intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels.

16 June 2010 - Federal Police ahead of target for 500 new officers
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today informed Parliament that the Australian Federal Police is exceeding the Rudd Government’s recruitment target to hire 500 new sworn officers over five years.

15 June 2010 - Vessel intercepted by Border Protection Command
HMAS Armidale, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel south west of Ashmore Islands this afternoon.

15 June 2010 - 'Doc'ceroos take on Australian Federal Police at Parliament to launch Men's Health Week
The launch of Men’s Health Week is a great way of promoting awareness of male health issues, the Minister for Indigenous Health and Rural and Regional Health, Warren Snowdon, and the Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, said today.

14 June 2010 - Tougher penalties for aviation threats
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor will propose tougher penalties for aviation-related crimes, such as bomb hoaxes and endangering an aircraft in flight.

13 June 2010 - Top cops share pearls of wisdom in Sydney
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today addressed law enforcement chiefs from across the globe who have gathered in Sydney for the 2010 Pearls in Policing conference.

12 June 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessels
ACV Triton, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, today intercepted a suspected illegal entry vessel north west of Ashmore Islands.

10 June 2010 - Australia and Indonesia collaborate to combat money laundering
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed an Indonesian parliamentary delegation to Australia to discuss Indonesia’s draft law to combat money laundering.

9 June 2010 - ThinkUKnow cyber education starts in Victoria
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today launched ThinkUKnow in Victoria to educate parents, carers and teachers about how to create a safe online experience for young Australians.

8 June 2010 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
ACV Oceanic Viking, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, has today assisted a boat south west of Scott Reef under the Safety of Life at Sea convention.

8 June 2010 - Illicit drug report helps avoid future victims of drugs
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today released a new report to help law enforcement agencies better tackle illicit drugs and limit the devastating effects of drugs on Australian families.

5 June 2010 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
ACV Botany Bay, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, this afternoon provided assistance to a vessel north of Scott Reef.

5 June 2010 - Border Protection Command intercepts vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

4 June 2010 - Border Protection Command boards vessel
HMAS Maryborough, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, boarded a vessel overnight, about ten nautical miles north of Ashmore Island.

4 June 2010 - Minister welcomes Queen’s Baton return to Australia
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the arrival of the Queen’s Baton on Norfolk Island on its journey to New Delhi in India for the XIX Commonwealth Games.

4 June 2010 - Border Protection Command assists vessel
Vessels operating under the control ofBorder Protection Command have assisted a boat carrying 28 passengers and two crew, under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention. 

3 June 2010 - Christmas Island serves up volleyball talent
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor and the Member for Lingiari Warren Snowdon today served up $52,000 to send Christmas Island volleyballers to the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup for the first time.

3 June 2010 - ThinkUKnow cyber education starts in ACT
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today launched ThinkUKnow in the ACT to educate parents, carers and teachers about how to create a safe online experience for young Australians.

25 May 2010 - Help Bring Missing Children Home
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today urged Australians to launch an online balloon as part of a global campaign for International Missing Children’s Day.

24 May 2010 - Review of Norfolk Island Heritage Site Released
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today announced that a new report will help to bolster the bid for World Heritage Listing of a historic part of Norfolk Island.

22 May 2010 - Federal Police Helping to Rebuild Afghanistan
The Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O'Connor has returned from witnessing first-hand the work of Australian Federal Police officer in Afghanistan. Mr O'Connor joined AFP Commissioner Tony Negus at Tarin Kowt and Kabul this week to get an insight into the important work the AFP is doing in the country.

16 May 2010 - Border Protection Command Boards Vessel
Border Protection Command provided assistance to a vessel yesterday afternoon approximately 45 nautical miles east-north-east of Scott Reef. Initial indications suggest 92 passengers were on board the vessel.

14 May 2010 - Territories Law Reform Report Welcomed
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor, today welcomed continued cooperation between the Commonwealth and State and Territories and progress on initiatives to improve compliance with classification laws.

13 May 2010 - Passage of Legislation to Combat People Smuggling
The Australian Government today welcomed the passage of legislation to significantly strengthen Australia’s people smuggling laws.

13 May 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

12 May 2010 - Daniel Snedden Taken Into Custody
Daniel Snedden, wanted to face war crimes charges in Croatia, has today been taken into custody.

12 May 2010 - Vessel Intercepted by Border Protection Command
HMAS Childers operating under the control of Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel, near Ashmore Islands.

12 May 2010 - Looking After Australia's Territories
The Rudd Government today confirmed that an additional $82.8 million would be provided in the 2010/11 Budget to support the communities of Christmas and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

12 May 2010 - Border Protection Command Boards Vessel
Customs and Border Protection patrol vessel, the Oceanic Viking, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, provided assistance to a vessel yesterday afternoon approximately 54 nautical miles south south west of Scott Reef. Initial indications suggest 48 people were on board the vessel.

11 May 2010 - Additional $38.5 Million to Combat Organised Crime
The Government will invest an additional $38.5 million to combat organised crime in Australia, Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, and Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor announced today.

11 May 2010 - Strengthening Australia's Border Security
The Australian Government will invest $1.2 billion to bolster Australia’s border security with a range of measures including eight new border patrol vessels and strengthened aviation security.

11 May 2010 - Strengthening Australia's National Security Capacity
The Rudd Government will invest over $500 million to further strengthen Australia’s national security capacity.

10 May 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Two Vessels
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels.

10 May 2010 - Rescued Passengers Arrive at Christmas Island
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship and the Australian Federal Police have commenced interviewing 59 rescued passengers who have arrived at Christmas Island.   They will undergo identity, security and health checks and their reasons for travel will be established.

9 May 2010 - Maritime Search and Rescue Operation - Complete
Passengers from a disabled vessel that was rescued yesterday by a Russian merchant vessel, MV Postojna, have been transferred to Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

8 May 2010 - Maritime Search and Rescue Operation near Cocos Islands - Update
A disabled vessel carrying approximately 60 people has been located and is being towed to Cocos Islands where arrangements are being put in place for the safe disembarkation of passengers.

7 May 2010 - Progress on Classification Enforcement Initiatives
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor, today welcomed continued cooperation between the Commonwealth and State and Territories and progress on initiatives to improve compliance with classification laws.

7 May 2010 - R18+ Classification for Computer Games Consultation Report Released
The Standing Committee of Attorneys General today agreed to release a status report following public consultation about whether Australia’s Classification Scheme should include an R 18+ classification category for computer games

7 May 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command last night successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

7 May 2010 - Online Monitoring uncovers Pseudoephedrine Syndicate
A six-month Customs and Border Protection operation involving online targeting officers has uncovered a suspected pseudoephedrine importing syndicate in Adelaide.

6 May 2010 - Detector Dogs Have Assured Place in High-Tech World
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced that detector dogs are continuing to perform a crucial role for Customs and Border Protection, despite the introduction of new technology and equipment.

6 May 2010 - ThinkYouKnow Launched in South Australia
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today launched the ThinkUKnow program in South Australia at the Linden Park Schools in Adelaide.

4 May 2010 - Improved Safety and Community Facilities for City of Gosnells
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today congratulated the City of Gosnells on its revitalisation work on the Thornlie Civic Precinct.

4 May 2010 - Vessel Intercepted by Border Protection Command
HMAS Childers operating under the control of Border Protection Command last night successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel, west of Ashmore Islands.

3 May 2010 - Tough Penalties for Illegally Importing Weapons
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced that over 2,500 bladed weapons have been seized by Customs and Border Protection already this year.

29 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command yesterday successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

29 April 2010 - Australia Strengthening Fight Against Money Laundering in the Region
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor, today announced an extensive legal assistance program in the Asia-Pacific to combat money-laundering and financing of terrorism.

28 April 2010 - New Southern Ocean Patrol Vessel
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced a new Southern Ocean Maritime Patrol and Response Capability contract has been signed with Australian company, dmaa Seaforce Pty Ltd.

28 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel late last night.

28 April 2010 - Farewelling AFP Deployment to Afghanistan
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today farewelled the additional six Australian Federal Police (AFP) members deploying to Afghanistan to contribute to the ongoing capacity building and development of the Afghan National Police.

27 April 2010 - $3.6 Million For Safer Victorian Schools
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor today announced funding of $3,648,410 to schools in Victoria under the Australian Government’s $20 million Secure Schools Program.

27 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel yesterday afternoon.

26 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
HMAS Wollongong operating under the control of Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel last night, north north west of Ashmore Islands.

23 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted the vessel during the evening on 22 April 2010 north east of West Islet, near Ashmore Islands. The vessel was detected by ACV Ashmore Guardian, under the control of Border Protection Command.

23 April 2010 - Strengthening the Fight Against Money Laundering and People Smuggling
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today signaled the government's next steps in the fight against money laundering and people smuggling with the release of a discussion paper detailing proposals to strengthen regulation of Australia’s remittance sector.

22 April 2010 - ThinkUKnow Launched in New South Wales
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor, and Federal Member for Lowe, John Murphy have reinforced the importance and relevance of the recently launched Think U Know program developed to educate parents, carers and teachers about how to create a safe online experience for the nation's youth.

21 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

16 April 2010 - Minister Welcomes Input from Norfolk Island on Territories Law Reform Bill
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today thanked the Norfolk Island community for the submissions received on the Territories Law Reform Bill 2010.

16 April 2010 - ThinkUKnow Launched in Tasmania
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor and the Federal Member for Franklin, Julie Collins, today launched the ThinkUKnow program in Tasmania at Calvin Primary School in Hobart, to educate parents, carers and teachers about how to create a safe online experience for the nation’s youth.

16 April 2010 - Minister Requests Review of Salo Classification
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, has applied to the Classification Review Board for a review of the most recent classification of the film Salo.

16 April 2010 - Laws Amended to Prevent Abuse of Money Transfer System
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced new Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Rules (AML/CTF Rules) which provide powers to deregister high-risk money remitters.

16 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

16 April 2010 - Minister Applauds Tasmanian Indigenous Program
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today visited a Hobart intervention project for Indigenous men and youth, funded under the Australian Government’s Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) grants program.

13 April 2010 - People Smuggler Charged by AFP
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today praised the work of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) for charging a Sri Lankan man with people smuggling.

12 April 2010 - Minister Backs Call for Vigilence to Combat Card Skimming
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor has urged merchants to heed the warnings from banks, law enforcement agencies and retailers to secure EFTPOS terminals from a rise in card skimming.

12 April 2010 - Enhancing Customs Cooperation in the Pacific
The Pacific Customs Management Program 2010, managed by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service will begin in Canberra today.

12 April 2010 - Grant to Improve Customs Law and Border Protection in Solomon Islands
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced a joint Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Australian Government US$600,000 grant package, which aims to modernise and improve customs legislation in Solomon Islands.

11 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

11 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

10 April 2010 Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
HMAS Maitland, operating under the control of Border Protection Command, intercepted the vessel during the afternoon on 10 April north east of Ashmore Island.

10 April 2010 Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command has successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

9 April 2010 - Cultural Diversity the Winner
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, has encouraged Melbourne’s diverse cultural communities and AFL footy fans alike to come together on Sunday 11 April to celebrate the third annual Unity Cup Family Day.

9 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Boards Vessel
Border Protection Command has provided assistance to a vessel 73 nautical miles east-south-east of Christmas Island.

7 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

6 April 2010 - Vessel Intercepted by Border Protection Command
HMAS Childers operating under the control of Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel last night, near West Island at Ashmore Reef.

6 April 2010 - SmartGate Swings Open at Hold Coast Airport
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today unveiled SmartGate, the self-processing option for travellers, at Gold Coast International Airport.

4 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

2 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

1 April 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts vessel
Border Protection Command today succesfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

First Quarter 2010

29 March 2010 - Two Vessels Intercepted by Border Protection Command
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels.

27 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

25 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Last night, Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

24 March 2010 - Congratulations to new Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly
The Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, today congratulated the newly elected members of the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly.

24 March 2010 - Exta Time to Comment on Territories Law Reform Bill 2010
The Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, today announced an extension of time for comments on the Territories Law Reform Bill 2010.

23 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessels
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels.

22 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command has successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

20 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
HMAS Albany operating under the control of Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel north-west of Christmas Island, just after 11pm yesterday.

19 March 2010 - Simpler Tariff Concessions will Reduce Compliance Costs to Business
The Rudd Government today announced that it will create a simpler system of tariff concessions for importers, brokers and manufacturers.

19 March 2010 - Consumer Beware Counterfeit Goods Seizures on the Rise
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today warned consumers to be on the look out for fakes following an increase in seizures at the border with a potential retail value in excess of $47 million in 2009 alone.

18 March 2010 - Getting Tougher on Child Sex Offenders
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today welcomed the passage of legislation reforming Commonwealth child sex offences, including child sex tourism and online offences.

17 March 2010 - Introduction of the Territories Law Reform Bill
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced the introduction of the Territories Law Reform Bill into Parliament.

15 March 2010 - Minister Welcomes New ACT Chief Police Officer
Minister for Home Affairs today congratulated Assistant Commissioner Roman Quaedvlieg on his appointment as the new ACT Chief Police Officer.

14 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command  has successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

12 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Boards Vessel
Border Protection Command has provided assistance to a vessel 200 nautical miles west of the Tiwi Islands. The people on board the vessel are safe and have indicated that they wish to come to Australia.

11 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Rescues 27 People
Border Protection Command has provided assistance to a vessel 118 nautical miles north west of the Tiwi Islands. Border Protection Command (BPC) reached the vessel this morning and the people have now been safely transferred to HMAS Glenelg.

10 March 2010 - Reform of Working with Children Checks
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the passage of the Crimes Amendment (Working With Children - Criminal History) Bill 2009.

10 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

7 March  2010 - Border Protection Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

6 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

4 March 2010 - 55,000-Plus Submissions Received on R18+ Classification for Computer Games
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the more than 55,000 submissions received in response to the R18+ Classification for Computer Games Discussion Paper.

3 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

1 March 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

1 March 2010 - Fresh Faces and New Hope for Missing Australians
The Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, today launched Australia’s first poster featuring age-enhanced images of long-term missing persons, aiming to bring renewed hope to Australian families.

26 February 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command overnight successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

26 February 2010 - Ban on Tablet Presses Comes into Effect
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today welcomed the commencement of legislation prohibiting the importation of tablet presses into Australia.

24 February 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

24 February 2010 - Minister Opens 2nd Malaysia-Australia Working Group on People Smuggling
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today opened the second meeting of the Malaysia-Australia Working Group on People Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons.

23 February 2010 - Environmental Crime Conference targets Illegal Logging and Fishing
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan Connor, has welcomed a regional conference on environmental crime and anti-money laundering, which is being held in Wollongong until the 26th of February.

23 February 2010 - Audit Report Highlights Successes in Combating Illegal Foreign Fishing
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today welcomed the release of the Australian National Audit Office report on Illegal Foreign Fishing in Australia’s Northern Waters, which concludes that overall Customs and Border Protection has effectively managed and coordinated enforcement operations.

20 February 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

19 February 2010 - Helping Parents Protect Kids on the Internet
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today launched the Australia-wide rollout of the ThinkUKnow program to educate parents, carers and teachers about how to create a safe online experience for the nation’s youth.

18 February 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

18 February 2010 - New Data Centre to Aid in Fight Against Illicit Drugs
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today launched the first Australian Illicit Drug Data Centre (AIDDC) in Sydney, NSW.

18 February 2010 - Report Shows Significant Declines in Detainee Drug Use
The Australian Institute of Criminology’s (AIC) annual Drug Use Monitoring in Australia (DUMA) report has revealed a significant decline in the use of methamphetamines and other illicit drug types among police detainees

12 February 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

9 February 2010 - Strengthening Aviation Security
The Australian Government has today announced a comprehensive package of measures to strengthen Australia's international and domestic aviation security regime against emerging threats.

9 February 2010 - Truss and Keenan Continue Coalition Blunders
Today’s joint media release by the Shadow Minister for Trade, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Warren Truss, and Shadow Minister for Justice and Customs Michael Keenan, which criticises the government’s latest steps to strengthen Australia’s aviation security, contains so many falsehoods and blunders that it can’t go unchallenged.

9 February 2010 - Minister Congratulates New Commander of Border Protection Command
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today congratulated Royal Australian Navy Commodore Tim Barrett on his promotion to Rear Admiral and appointment to Commander of Border Protection Command.

7 February 2010 - Border Protection Command Rescues 45 People
Yesterday afternoon Border Protection Command received a request from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) to assist with a safety of life at sea matter approximately 91 nautical miles south south west of Christmas Island.

4 February  2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

4 February 2010 - Reforms to Child Sex Offences Introduced
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O'Connor, today introduced into Parliament reforms to strengthen Commonwealth child sexual exploitation laws.

2 February 2010 - Pre-cursor drug destruction in Cambodia
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today praised the Australian Federal Police (AFP) for their support and commitment to international policing efforts with the destruction of 15 tonnes of Safrole Oil in Cambodia.

1 February 2010 - Suspected Irregular Entry Vessel Boarded
Border Protection Command has this evening boarded a suspected irregular entry vessel in the vicinity of Christmas Island.

29 January 2010 - AFP Commander Achieves Significant Results in Timor-Leste
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor today welcomed the comments from the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste His Excellency Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, who has acknowledged the significant contribution of AFP Commander Grant Edwards as he completes his role as Head of the Timor-Leste Police Development Program (TLPDP).

29 January 2010 - Smartgate Makes Travel Easier for One Million
Customs and Border Protection has reached a significant milestone in the operation of its self-processing option for travellers, SmartGate.

28 January 2010 - Agency Integration Improving Border Security
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor said today that Australia’s border management community had proven itself to be more integrated and better coordinated since the presentation of the National Security Statement in 2008.

27 January 2009 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command yesterday successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

24 January 2010 - Massive Increase in the Seizure of Illegal Lasers
Close to 6,000 laser pointers have been seized over the past six months, the Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, announced today.

23 January 2009 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command has successfully intercepted two suspected irregular entry vessels.

22 January 2010 - Drug Arrests Highlight Benefits of Cooperation
Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor today congratulated Australian law enforcement agencies for disrupting an alleged organised crime syndicate.

21 January 2010 - Minister to Launch a Safer New Year for Gawler
Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, and the Member for Wakefield, Nick Champion, today launched the Town of Gawler’s $75,000 CCTV installation in Gawler City Centre project, funded under the Australian Government’s Safer Suburbs Plan.

8 January 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

4 January 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command yesterday successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

3 January 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command this morning successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.

1 January 2010 - Border Protection Command Intercepts Vessel
Border Protection Command today successfully intercepted a suspected irregular entry vessel.