AFP to lead a new homeland security agency as part of national security overhaul

The Australian Federal Police would be put in charge of national security, if a plan proposed by the federal government is adopted, according to reports.

News Corp reports the Prime Minister's office plans to group the AFP and its counterterrorism arms under a single branch, which would also include customs, immigration, border protection, the Australian Crime Commission, emergency management, and the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre.

What are your thoughts on the plan? Let us know by leaving a comment below or emailing contact@9news.com.au

It is believed the main purpose for the change is to ensure the AFP is a large enough portfolio to be managed by a Cabinet minister, rather than a junior responsibility of the Department of Justice as is currently the case.

The Australian Security Inteligence Organisation (ASIO) would remain under the control of the Attorney-General's department, while the Australian Secret Inteligence Service (ASIS) would fall under the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Responsibility for the new agency is expected to be handed to Immigration Minister Scott Morrison, which could be rolled out before next year.