Australia Steps Up Visa Screening System

The foiled car bomb attempts in the United Kingdom have prompted Australia to move up a deadline for a border security system that is in development, according to a report posted by The Australian. Australian Prime Minister John Howard announced the system will go live in September. Howard also described the system as one of the most advanced in the world, providing detailed information on visa applicants, including past travel and links that applicants may have with particular organizations and individuals who may be under suspicion for supporting terrorism. Australian officials also may link the system to international intelligence systems operated by the United States and Europe.