News: legislation

Safeguarding Australia's Military Secrets

The Australian government passed the Defence Amendment , which will be enforced from 7 August 2024. The legislation requires certain Australian citizens and permanent residents to have a Foreign Work Authorisation (FWA) when working for or providing military-related training to a foreign military or foreign government body (including foreign public universities). Individuals have a personal obligation to obtain the FWA.

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Simplified reporting obligations for public officers

The statutory responsibilities of the State’s key public integrity agencies – the (ICAC), the (OPI) and – were recently changed by the South Australian Parliament.

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New laws address academic freedom and freedom of speech in higher education

Academic freedom and freedom of speech are a part of laws regulating the higher education sector and academic activities.

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Updated contract templates for Foreign Arrangements

The Foreign Arrangements Scheme commenced on Tuesday 10 March 2021. The scheme introduces a formal notification requirement that applies to foreign arrangements entered into by all Australian state and territory entities, including public universities.

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Foreign engagement activities – collaborating within the national interest

Over recent decades, Australia’s economy and the higher education sector have benefited from an expansion in global engagement opportunities. With increasing connectivity t