The Federal Government has succeeded in its efforts to see law enforcement agencies be able to force internet service providers to store data on subscribers while a warrant is sought.

 

The Cybercrime Legislation Amendment Bill 2011 makes amendments to existing legislation which will prevent ISPs from deleting data upon request of a law enforcement agency.

 

Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said the passage of the legislation will also allow Australia to accede to the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime.

 

"Cyber crime is a growing threat that touches all aspects of modern life. It poses complex policy and law enforcement challenges, partly due to the transnational nature of the internet," Ms Roxon said.

  

Greens Communications spokesperson, Senator Scott Ludlam, hit out at the passage of the legislation, saying that it would make it significantly easier for police agencies to trap and share Australians’ private data with other police forces around the world.

 

"With an inquiry into Government surveillance only just getting under way, this move is provocative, pre-emptive and typifies everything that is wrong with the way the balance is tilting against the rights of the individual," Senator Ludlam said.