43CRequests for international assistance not to be disclosed

43C Requests for international assistance not to be disclosed

A person who, because of his or her office or employment, has knowledge of: (a) the contents of a request for international assistance made by a foreign country to Australia under this Act; or (b) the fact that such a request has been made; or (c) the fact that such a request has been granted or refused; must not intentionally disclose those contents or that fact except if: (d) it is necessary to do so in the performance of his or her duties; or (e) the Attorney‑General has given his or her approval to the disclosure of those contents or that fact.

Penalty: Imprisonment for 2 years.

Note: Under subsection 4D(1) of the Crimes Act 1914, this penalty is the maximum penalty for any offence under this section. Subsection 4B(2) of that Act allows a court to impose an appropriate fine instead of, or in addition to, a term of imprisonment.