Former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg, who has been outspoken in his criticism of the federal government’s response, said on social media platform X: “Prime Minister, your announcement today of an internal departmental review of law enforcement and intelligence agencies is wholly inadequate. To use an Australian colloquialism it’s bullshit. It’s weak, it’s wrong, it’s an abrogation of your first and fundamental duty to protect.”
Nationals leader David Littleproud told Sky News he believe Albanese did not want a federal royal commission because of what it might uncover.
“The warning signs were there … but we should look ourselves in the eye,” Littleproud said.
“We should look at the failings of decisions made at a political level, at intelligence levels. And many of these agencies are at a federal level.”
Albanese said on Sunday the intelligence and law enforcement review would build on previous work done on the Independent Intelligence Review.
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Richardson has served as secretary of both the Defence and Foreign Affairs and Trade departments as well as Australia’s ambassador to the United States.
The national security committee of cabinet continued to meet over the weekend and cabinet will reconvene on Monday.
Albanese will attend a commemoration event at Bondi Beach later on Sunday.