After royal commission noted a decline in counter-terror focus, Labor has deployed a “shield from political embarrassment” about who ordered it.

ASIO boss Mike Burgess told the antisemitism royal commission the government claimed public interest immunity over questions about counter-terrorism funding.

After royal commission noted a decline in counter-terror focus, Labor has deployed a “shield from political embarrassment” about who ordered it.

The opposition has accused the government of using confidentiality protections “as a shield from political embarrassment” over counter-terrorism funding.

The hearings expose a series of security lapses, from a stretched intelligence agency to a disputed decision not to send permanent police to the event.

Michelle Rowland argues Labor blocking information about whether cabinet reduced counter-terror funding is fine because royal commissioner can overrule it.