NSW UNVEILS FIRST COUNTER TERRORISM STRATEGY

The NSW Government has unveiled its first Counter Terrorism Strategy as part of a plan to create a safer NSW and strengthen our ability to prepare, prevent, respond and recover from acts of terrorism and violent extremism.

The Strategy captures the coordination effort involved in keeping the community safe, including Australia's toughest counter terrorism laws, programs combating the rise of violent extremism, and support for victims.

It also supports NSW government's commitment to build closer partnerships with the private sector, owners and operators of critical infrastructure and community leaders in order to create a more resilient society.

Minister for Counter Terrorism David Elliott said hard-won experience has informed the State's management of its CT responsibilities and the risk of future attacks is an unfortunate reality for the community.

"NSW is a safe, cohesive and resilient society but there are a small number of individuals with extreme and violent views who want to divide us and threaten our safety," Mr Elliott said.

"The Strategy provides a solid foundation for NSW to consolidate and enhance its existing work in CT and CVE, helping to identify and meet the evolving threat of terrorism through operational, policy and legislative improvements."

The NSW Government has been increasing CT capability across agencies, including:

·         New High-risk security unit at Goulburn and a specialist team to combat radicalisation in prisons

·         Dedicated Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Police Command with more than 500 officers

·         Step Together helpline and online service to provide community with advice and support about violent extremism

·         Community grants to promote social cohesion and support teams and counsellors for schools.

"Countering terrorism and violent extremism is not a goal that can be achieved by government alone. It is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of business, non-government organisations and the community," Mr Elliott said.