A new role at the Home Affairs Department has been created to crack down on “sophisticated” serious and organised crime.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Deputy Commissioner Karl Kent has been appointed Transnational Serious and Organised Crime Coordinator.

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton announced the new role alongside a $70 million plan to tackle child exploitation.

The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission estimates organised crime costs Australia about $36 billion a year.

Deputy Commissioner Kent is expected to facilitate inter-agency efforts focusing on illegal firearms and substances.