Since the terrorism laws were passed, the LCA has consistently raised the need for an independent review of the laws to ensure they represent a proportionate response to terrorism threats, supporting the introduction of the National Security Legislation Monitor Bill in June 2009.

LCA president Glenn Ferguson said his body has urged the Government to move quickly and appoint an independent monitor and ensure the position is appropriately resourced.

"Nearly 18 months have passed since the bill was introduced and the Government has failed to appoint the monitor, despite the allocation of four year funding for the position in the June 2009 budget," he said.

In a letter received by the LCA this month, the Prime Minister's parliamentary secretary advised that the Government was now at the shortlist phase of the process.

"The Government's response to our continual requests to make the appointment and ensure the position is adequately resourced has been disappointing and the time it is taking to appoint a person to this position is completely unacceptable."

The LCA is also concerned about the level and type of resources allocated to support the position and that the position is sufficiently independent of government.