The AFP’s secretive new anti-protest command
Jan 19, 2026 •
Rex Patrick is a former senator from South Australia. Before that, he was a submariner in the Navy.
Last year, he noticed a reference to a new arm of the Australian Federal Police called the AUKUS Command.
He wanted to know more, so he lodged Freedom of Information requests with the Australian Submarine Agency and the Australian Federal Police.
The documents he got back were heavily redacted – but he was able to form a picture of a secretive new command set up to protect AUKUS submarines.
But hidden in the fine print were plans to surveil protest, manage dissent, and deploy force against it.
Today, Rex Patrick on the Australian Federal Police, their new powers to protect America’s interests in Australia, and what it means for the future of protest.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
The AFP’s secretive new anti-protest command
1790 • Jan 19, 2026
The AFP’s secretive new anti-protest command
Rex Patrick is a former senator from South Australia. Before that, he was a submariner in the Navy.
Last year, he noticed a reference to a new arm of the Australian Federal Police called the AUKUS Command.
He wanted to know more, so he lodged Freedom of Information requests with the Australian Submarine Agency and the Australian Federal Police.
The documents he got back were heavily redacted – but he was able to form a picture of a secretive new command set up to protect AUKUS submarines.
But hidden in the fine print were plans to surveil protest, manage dissent, and deploy force against it.
Today, Rex Patrick on the Australian Federal Police, their new powers to protect America’s interests in Australia, and what it means for the future of protest.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Former submariner and former senator for South Australia, Rex Patrick
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
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