IT may seem somewhat inconceivable that North East residents would be hesitant to travel to Melbourne or Sydney, fearful of the increased threat of terrorism.
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But member for Indi, Cathy McGowan, has noted the rapid passage of a bill through federal Parliament that would heighten the powers of intelligence agencies to combat terrorism is helping feed the fear of those concerned about what will happen should they leave home and travel interstate or overseas.
Ms McGowan is not critical of the laws proposed, including greater computer monitoring, immunity from protection to intelligence officers involved in special operations and jail terms for journalists and whistleblowers who reveal details of intelligence operations or terrorism activities.
However, she does believe more time should be given to allow all Australians to scrutinise the bill and comment on its proposals.
Others on the crossbench and in opposition believe there is a greater threat from giving greater powers to ASIO.
It would be wise to allow more time for consultation with Australians to ensure the wider population understates exactly how the changes in the law will affect everyone, as well as protect them.
