The report, released on Monday, also recommended amendments to proposed anti-terror legislation, including the power for the independent reviewer to initiate their own inquiries, adequate resourcing and staff, and rulings as to whether the legislation is consistent with Australia's international human rights obligations.

Law Council President John Corcoran said his organisation had been calling for the Government to establish such a role since 2002.

"The Law Council is particularly pleased to see recommendations that the monitor should be able to initiate their own inquiries - rather than being reliant or referrals from the Prime Minister only - and that the monitor should report to Parliament, not just the Prime Minister," he said.

Corcoran said the Law Council hoped that the Government would accept the Senate Committee's recommendations, make amendments and ensure swift passage through Parliament.

"The Australian community has waited long enough for a mechanism for ongoing, comprehensive and independent review of our national security laws. It is now time for the Government to act," he said.