Today, as a result of intelligence information and discussions between jurisdictions, the Australian Government has assessed the terrorism threat level against police as HIGH. This means that a terrorist attack against police is assessed as likely. It is very important to be aware that there is no intelligence of any threats specific to Tasmania, or police in Tasmania. However, Tasmania Police is the lead agency for Counter Terrorism incidents and first responders to emergency incidents that do place them in high risk situations. The level of HIGH will not impact on the day to day activities of Tasmania Police. The Australian Government regularly reviews the likelihood of a terrorist attack in Australia and their first priority is the safety and security of the community. Following recent events interstate and overseas, which have seen police being specifically targeted, a heightened level of alert in respect of police has been implemented. This assessment is separate from the National Terrorism Public Alert Level which moved to HIGH in September 2014. The National Terrorism Public Alert Level dictates levels of precaution and vigilance to minimise the risk of a terrorist incident occurring. It also guides national preparation and planning. More information is available at nationalsecurity.gov.au or TasALERT - alert.tas.gov.au/Resources/Pages/Alert-Level.aspx Unusual or suspicious activity should be reported to the National Security Hotline 1800 1234 00 or the Police Assistance Line 131 444. For assistance in a life threatening or time critical emergency call Triple Zero (000).
Posted on: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 03:50:12 +0000