The Coalition Government has today launched the National Strategy to fight Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime to better protect the safety and security of all Australians.
The Minister for Home Affairs Peter Dutton said the Council of Australian Governments agreement to the Strategy yesterday recognises the need for a strong and united response to the threat transnational, serious and organised crime (TSOC) poses to Australia’s national security.
“Transnational, serious and organised crime impacts on our safety and security, our businesses and economy and our Australian way of life and last year cost Australia up to $47.4 billion,” Mr Dutton said.
“The criminal networks behind crimes such as trafficking of illicit drugs, sexual exploitation of children, and financial crime and cybercrime are resilient, well-financed, and operate across international borders as sophisticated enterprises.
“It is a significant challenge that requires a coordinated, collaborative and strategic national approach – key themes of the Strategy.”
The Strategy sets out for the first time how Australian Governments will align our efforts to combat TSOC, providing a powerful framework for government agencies, the private sector and the broader community to tackle this insidious threat.
Mr Dutton said that while 70 per cent of Australia’s serious and organised crime threats are based offshore or have strong offshore links, its impacts are felt in our communities.
“The manufacture and trade of illicit commodities from overseas put drugs and firearms on our streets, destroying communities and fuelling violence.
“Serious financial crime exploits our financial system, swindling Australians of their savings and defrauding governments of funds that could be spent on essential services, such as health care and education.
“Much is already being done, but the National Strategy to Fight Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime will ensure the fight is underpinned by a coordinated, collaborative and strategic approach.”
The Commonwealth TSOC Coordinator, Deputy Commissioner Karl Kent OAM, will drive the implementation of the Strategy and work closely with the States and Territories. The Government appointed Deputy Commissioner Kent to the new role in May 2018.
“We are most effective when we work together – both domestically and internationally, across governments and the community – to ensure Australia is safe and secure,” Mr Dutton said.
Further information about the strategy can be found at: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/our-portfolios/national-security/tsoc
