Home Affairs 'super-ministry': Tony Abbott says he was advised against national security shakeup
By political reporter Henry Belot
Updated 50 minutes ago
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"Former prime minister Tony Abbott says he was told there was no need for a Home Affairs Ministry when he was in office, casting doubt on the biggest national security shakeup in decades.
Last month, Mr Abbott indicated support for such a ministry, saying he did not want "turf-protecting ministers" to stand in the way.
The latest interjection by Mr Abbott, who said he had a duty to comment on national affairs as a former prime minister, added to concerns the super-ministry may not be necessary.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced Immigration Minister Peter Dutton would lead the super-ministry, adding ASIO and the AFP to his responsibilities.
Mr Abbott said he considered making the change but decided against it.”
