More than $100m will be invested over the next four year to fight terrorism and extremism under a new strategy.
Federal Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the extra $106.2m in funding would be used to strengthen support services, increase capability in communities and deepen collaboration with industry, government agencies, academia and international partners.
Minister Burke said the new Counter-Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy would focus on whole-of-society efforts to prevent politically-motivated violence.
“Our security environment is constantly evolving and Australia must remain alert to the dynamics that contribute to violent extremism and terrorism within Australia and in our region,” he said.
“Prevention is our best defence, and this strategy, endorsed by all states and territories, will deliver a coordinated approach to intervention across the country.”
Minister Burke said an increasing number of people were being radicalised to violence and radicalised more quickly, with young people particularly vulnerable.
“The Strategy recognises the need to address the root causes of violent extremism and the role of early intervention services for vulnerable people, such as law enforcement working hand-in-hand with health services, education providers and community services.”
He said the centrepiece of the measures was a new National Support and Intervention Program, which was a collaborative effort with states and territories to disengage people from radicalising to violent extremism and reintegrate them successfully into the community.
“The Government will also deliver a national Step Together program, informed by the New South Wales Government’s existing program.
“Using a national website and referral service, those concerned about someone they know radicalising to violence can receive confidential online and phone support from qualified staff in real time, wherever they are in Australia.”
