Federal Justice Minister Michael Keenan says terror suspects as young as 10 would be held and questioned, without charge for a fortnight under new anti-terror laws.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also flagged other measures, including the creation of a national database of drivers license photographs to help identify terror suspects in public spaces.
There will also be new laws regarding the possession of instructional terrorist material and stronger laws against terrorism hoaxes.
State and territory leaders have supported the changes, but concerns have been raised over how the moves would impact people's rights and personal freedoms, especially those of children.
Mr Keenan has told the A-B-C the safety of the community is paramount.
