AFP Commissioner's address to the Five Eyes Law Enforcement Group

I begin tonight by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet and pay my respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Colleagues, the Honourable Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, QC, distinguished guests and to the broader law enforcement audience here tonight: Many of you have travelled several hours to get to Australia and your journey is no doubt a reminder of our unique location in the Asia Pacific Region.

The close alliance that brings us here today was borne out of the military affiliations formed during World War II.

This Five Nation alliance was crucial during the start of the Cold War – a time in history when serious threats motivated key allies to cooperate in a much more deliberate manner.

It was not until the 1950s that Australia joined this strategic partnership, which matured and evolved post 9/11.

In 2006, the Law Enforcement Strategic Alliance Group was developed under the Five Eyes partnership, and in 2013, it transitioned to the Five Eyes Law Enforcement Group, known as the FELEG.

In the six decades that have passed since Australia formally joined the alliance, intelligence and operational sharing has helped keep our countries safe.

This is our shared history.

We know that the past often helps mould our future.

But we don’t need a crystal ball to see that recent world events make FELEG as relevant today as it was at the time of its inception.

However, I would argue FELEG has never been more important.

And that is because:

The pandemic has contributed to the de-stabilisation of the world order.

Global instability is helping to fuel and embolden organised crime.

Criminals have weaponised technology and have become ruthlessly efficient at finding victims.

https://www.afp.gov.au/news-media/media-releases/afp-commissioners-address-five-eyes-law-enforcement-group