From 11 January 2019, owners and operators of
Australia's critical infrastructure (ports, electricity, water
and gas infrastructure) will have their assets more closely
scrutinised by the Commonwealth Government. Entities will be
required to disclose information about their corporate structure
and asset operations, and may be subject to direction by the
Minister.
The Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 (Cth)
(Act) seeks to improve the Commonwealth's
understanding of the ownership and operational control of critical
infrastructure in Australia.
The Act complements the Critical Infrastructure Centre, which
was established in January 2017. The Centre notes that foreign
investment can grant access and control to 'malicious
actors' who would 'facilitate espionage, sabotage or exert
coercive influence'. For example, a foreign actor may seek to
disrupt energy supply or obtain confidential data.
