The Australian government has suggested allowing its foreign spies to use lethal force against anyone who could jeopardise an intelligence operation.
Currently agents posted abroad are permitted to use force only in self-defence, to protect the lives of other agents or to safeguard those working with the Canberra government.
"The changes will mean officers are able to protect a broader range of people and use reasonable force if someone poses a risk to an operation," Foreign Minister Marise Payne said in a statement.
For example, the amended law would allow Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) agents to use lethal force to protect individuals, such as hostages, during overseas missions, she said. ASIS is Canberra's overseas spy agency.
The amendment introduced in parliament on Thursday was necessary because of the increased dangers faced by ASIS agents, Ms Payne said.
"Our ASIS officers often work in dangerous locations, including under warlike conditions, to protect Australia and our interests," she said.
Australia has been on heightened alert for attacks by militants both at home and at its foreign embassies.
Australian agents operating under the new law would have similar powers to those available to intelligence officers working for other Western spy agencies, according to a Reuters source.
The amendment requires the support of Australia's parliament, where the government does not have a majority.
