Dr John Coyne argues that the Council of Australian Governments and Parliament should closely examine the wider impacts and limitations of the proposal - boost for military's role in combating domestic terrorism.
Dr John Coyne points out that there are some serious logistical challenges to Defence's ability to deploy rapidly in response to domestic terrorism, saying the tactical assault groups (TAGs) are located only in Sydney and Perth, therefore it would take several hours to deploy a TAG to Melbourne or Brisbane.
He also expresses concern that Turnbull's latest policy may unintentionally create more uncertainty around counter-terrorism roles and responsibilities as local police will still remain the primary responders to domestic terror attacks.
On top of that, he pointedly says there is a difference between offshore military operations and domestic law-enforcement operations: unlike the military, our officers' normal focus is on protecting and preserving life, not taking it. So the earlier deployment of the ADF, with a far different focus, could potentially negatively impact on community safety.
Dr John Coyne acknowledges that streamlining the call-out powers has merit, however he emphasises that the Council of Australian Governments and Parliament should closely examine the wider impacts and limitations of this proposal.
Dr John Coyne is a senior analyst with the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.
