Canberra, Australia – The Australian Parliament has passed a new bill granting the government the power to designate any foreign entity or its members as a terrorist group. This is done if they are found to be involved in or supporting terrorist acts against Australia. The move has been described as a significant legislative escalation against external threats.
This law, passed by the Senate on Thursday, November 5, by a majority vote, is part of the 2025 Criminal Act Amendment concerning state sponsors of terrorism. It follows official reports indicating the involvement of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in terrorist attacks within Australian territory.
Senator Rafe Ciccone, chair of the Australian Parliament’s Joint Intelligence and Security Committee, said the bill was a response to a security assessment by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). This assessment revealed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ involvement in at least two terrorist attacks in Australia.
Ciccone explained that the new law allows the Australian Federal Police to designate any foreign government entity or one of its members as a sponsor of terrorism. This occurs if they are found to have been involved in “committing, preparing, planning, supporting, or instigating acts of terrorism against Australia.” This requires the approval of the Minister of State. A formal report to the Leader of the Opposition is also required to ensure transparency and parliamentary oversight.
“Our government’s number one priority is the safety and security of all Australian citizens. That’s why we moved decisively to pass this vital legislation through Parliament,” said Australian Attorney-General Michelle Rowland in a statement.
The passage of the law comes weeks after Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced in September the expulsion of the Iranian ambassador from the country. The Australian embassy in Tehran also suspended its operations. This followed the emergence of evidence implicating Iran in two anti-Semitic attacks.
Albanese also announced at the time his government’s intention to officially designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. This move came amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
