The federal government is moving to strengthen people smuggling laws to give the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) a greater role in combating the problem.
Under draft laws to be introduced to parliament on Wednesday, ASIO would be given the power to specifically investigate people smuggling and other serious border security threats.
Australia's national security agencies would also be given the power to collect foreign intelligence about individuals, including people smugglers and their networks.
The legislation, if passed, would make it an offence to finance or provide support for people smuggling activities.
Those involved in people smuggling activities in Australia involving exploitation or danger of death or serious harm would face a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $220,000.
The government said it was committed to targeting criminal groups which organise, participate in and benefit from people smuggling activities.
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