A new wide-ranging package of security processes has been announced by the Australian government to reinforce both domestic and international aviation from security threats. A number of measures are set to be introduced.

Federal Transport Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged $54.2 million to be used for explosive detection technology and X-ray screening. A regulated shipper scheme will also be set up to enable identification of high-risk cargo. The government has pledged to invest over $200 million over the next 4 years on improved security procedures, superior security technology and greater airport policing, and also aims to augment international co-operation.

It is planned that immediate action will be taken on screening more passengers for explosive traces.
There will also be new screening technologies including the most recent body scanners, bottle scanners and next generation multi-view X-ray machines. By 2011 international air passengers will be subject to body scanners and the government has also stated an aim to improve training and performance for security-screening staff.

Mr Albanese went on to say that international co-operation will be strengthened by carrying out a trial along with the United Kingdom and the United States, at an Australian airport, on technology-based solutions to discover liquid-based explosives.

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