Malcolm Turnbull says the challenge of terrorism is "relentless" and requires greater co-operation between government agencies and tighter airport checks.
The prime minister met in Canberra on Wednesday with incoming home affairs minister Peter Dutton, Attorney-General George Brandis, Justice Minister Michael Keenan and Transport Minister Darren Chester for a briefing on progress on a new home affairs portfolio.
Under the changes, which come into force next year, the portfolio would cover agencies including Australian Federal Police, domestic intelligence agency ASIO and Australian Border Force as well as customs and citizenship.
Earlier this month counter-terrorism agencies thwarted a plot to blow up a commercial flight from Sydney to Abu Dhabi, which the prime minister said saved hundreds of lives.
Mr Turnbull said Mr Chester was reviewing aviation security arrangements, including the possible checking of passenger identities at airports.
Mr Dutton is examining cargo and passenger security and screening at airports.
"We recognise the challenge that we face is relentless ... and so we must be resolute in our efforts to ensure we are always doing everything we can to keep Australians safe," Mr Turnbull said.
