Transport security
Transport security in Australia is co-ordinated through the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) on Surface Transport Security and associated aviation and maritime security initiatives. The IGA outlines a broad framework for security planning and preventative measures which will be applied mainly through Police and Emergency Services networks.
Current information on national transport security issues is available from the National Office of Transport Security, in the Department of Transport and Regional Services (DOTARS).
National transport security co-ordination has been consolidated under the Transport Security Working Group. While ALGA is not represented on this Group, DOTARS will liaise on any issues directly affecting local government. ALGA has now been appointed to the Critical Infrastructure Advisory Council, which also considers security issues.
DOTARS has agreed to liaise with ALGA in developing information for local government on simple risk assessment procedures and subsequent basic, cost effective security measures. In particular, training and publicity materials are being developed to promote public and staff awareness of transport security needs.
DOTARS is also consulting directly with state and NT local govt associations where necessary - but in practice most local government liaison will occur through police and emergency services activities. Ideally, councils' risk identification, mitigation and consequence management plans can then be brought in line with the IGA. Primary engagement will be through state and NT local government associations and with any directly affected councils keeping ALGA informed at the strategic level.
Many local councils own or operate regional or rural airports. The Australian Government's Securing Our Regional Skies package provides assistance to upgrade security at many of these airports.
