New Spy Laws Raise Deep Concerns in Australia

SYDNEY — The Australian Government has said fears over new security laws are unfounded, and will not affect journalists or regular Australians.

A bill was presented to the Australian Parliament on Wednesday to expand the powers of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).

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Under the proposed bill, journalists could face prosecution or even jail time if they reported on spy operations or Edward Snowden-style leaks, The Guardian reported.

Controversy surrounds the creation of a new offence for "any person" who discloses information related to "special intelligence operations," which is punishable with five years jail. If any person is to "endanger the health or safety of any person, or prejudice the effective conduct of a special intelligence operation" he or she may face 10 years in prison. Read more...

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