Encryption laws will allow targeting of those suspected of minor crimes, experts warn

Law Council of Australia president-elect says the controversial legislation uses 'a sledgehammer to crack a nut'

The Morrison government's new encryption bill uses "a sledgehammer to crack a nut" and would capture minor offences dealt with in local courts, as well as potentially allowing law enforcement agencies to target journalists and whistleblowers, experts have warned.

The controversial encryption legislation was passed on the final sitting day of the year last week after Labor gave in to pressure from the government to pass the new laws before Christmas.