Crimes and Other Legislation Amendment (2026 Omnibus No. 1) Bill 2026; Second Reading

Summary

This omnibus amendment updates eight pieces of criminal law to modernise how Australian police and law enforcement agencies gather intelligence and obtain warrants. The changes amend the Crimes Act 1914, Criminal Code Act 1995, Director of Public Prosecutions Act 1983, Extradition Act 1988, Measures to Combat Serious and Organised Crime Act 2001, Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, Surveillance Devices Act 2004, and Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979. Practically, it extends the Australian Federal Police's powers to Sydney West Airport (bringing it in line with other major airports), allows police to obtain warrants electronically and remotely rather than in person, extends three types of digital surveillance warrants until 2029, and ensures ACT Policing can continue using Commonwealth detention and investigation powers—addressing gaps in how modern law enforcement can operate across different locations and digital platforms.

What happens at this stage

The main debate on whether the chamber supports the broad purpose of the bill. Members speak to its overall merits and concerns rather than the fine print. The government outlines its policy intentions; the opposition and crossbench put their case. This is the stage that determines whether the bill proceeds at all.

Next: Consideration in Detail (House) or Committee of the Whole (Senate), where the bill is examined clause by clause