Threat Level

Premier Will Hodgman today took part in a telephone hook-up with the Prime Minister Tony Abbott, and Premiers and Chief Ministers regarding national security.

The Prime Minister advised that the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) had independently raised Australia’s threat level.

As a result, Australia’s National Terrorism Public Alert Level has been raised from medium, where a terrorist attack could occur, to high, where a terrorist attack is likely.

Mr Hodgman said he wanted to assure Tasmanians there was no intelligence to suggest there was a threat specific to Tasmania, however it was important we remained vigilant.

“I believe the decision to increase the alert level is appropriate given current circumstances,” Mr Hodgman said

He said Tasmania was well prepared to respond to threats of terrorism and all Government agencies were implementing arrangements associated with this level of threat.

“In light of this change in alert level, I discussed with the Prime Minister the issue of Australian Federal Police withdrawing late next month from Hobart Airport.

“I am advised Tasmania Police will formally request AFP review this decision,” Mr Hodgman said.

Police and Emergency Management Minister Rene Hidding said Tasmania Police are liaising with the owners and operators of critical infrastructure and organisers of sporting and large public events to ensure appropriate security measures are in place.

“I can assure Tasmanians that in most cases they will not notice anything different as a result of the raised alert level.

“Tasmanians should report any unusual or suspicious activity to the National Security Hotline 1800 1234 00 or the Police Assistance Line 131 444,” Mr Hidding said.
“Trained operators take every call seriously and callers can remain anonymous.”

For further information visit: www.nationalsecurity.gov.au or the TasALERT website – www.alert.tas.gov.au – and social media: @TasALERT on Twitter and facebook.com/TasALERT

For life threatening or emergency situations, please ring 000.
Will Hodgman, Premier Rene Hidding, Minister for Police and Emergency Management