Defence will again make a significant contribution to security at one of the world’s major sporting events—the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in 2006, Defence Minister Robert Hill announced today.

The Budget provides an extra $13.0 million over three years for Defence to assist with security at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, drawing on its experience in providing support to Federal and State authorities for the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

"The ADF will work closely with the Victorian Police to provide complementary support with specialised and highly trained personnel," Senator Hill said.

"Defence could potentially assist with searches of venues and vehicles, bomb searches and disposal, clearance divers for searches in waterways, support for ceremonial activities and managing venues in the areas of logistics, communications and transport."

Senator Hill said the aim would to be to again provide security that was implemented in an effective, friendly and unobtrusive way that did not disrupt the Games.

"The Sydney Olympics set the benchmark for all those involved in security and I am confident the ADF will be in a position to assist in meeting those standards at the Commonwealth Games," Senator Hill said.

The Commonwealth retains broad responsibility for gathering and disseminating security and criminal intelligence, border control, aviation security, counter terrorism, dignitary protection and enforcement of Federal law.