The Wire

The so-called foreign interference bill passed parliament yesterday and despite amendments moved by the Labor party many remain unconvinced of its necessity.

Penalties relating to spying and espionage will be increased and the law will require those working for a foreign power to declare themselves on a newly created register.

Earlier versions of the law were rejected by Labor and the Greens for criminalising the receipt of certain information by journalists and hampering the activities of charities.