Australian authorities hold terrorist simulation training

A number of Australian security agencies have joined forces to take part in a simulated terrorism incident in Perth.

Hundreds of police and defence force personnel joined in the three-day operation designed to test command processes in a counter-terrorism specific environment, which concluded on Thursday.

Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan said Islamic State had produced the most significant threat to Australia's national security in history.

"Australia is at the forefront of international efforts to counter terrorism and our agencies are using every tool in their arsenal to investigate, monitor, arrest and prosecute home-grown violent extremists," Keenan said.

"But the national security challenges Australia faces are fluid."

Keenan noted Australia must continue to test its capabilities and legislation to meet emerging challenges and ensure law enforcement and intelligence agencies have the resources and powers they need to deal with the threat of terrorism.

The operation known as "Exercise Spartan" is a national exercise program put together by the Australia-New Zealand Counter-Terrorism Committee.

"Exercise Spartan" is designed to ensure Australia's national counter-terrorism arrangements are as effective as possible. Endit