Just got this reply from Matthew Fleming, Aviation Security, office of Transport Security.
The bottom line is that its the lease holder of the airport itself, NOT the dept who is responsible.
Perhaps a deluge to them is the go. Also, anyone here a mamber of AOPA?
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Ben
The lessee of Canberra Airport has put the measures you described in place at their own choosing. The government requires that airport operators meet stringent security standards, and many airport operators, as the owners of the infrastructure, decide to introduce measures above and beyond the minimum requirements, such as at Canberra Airport. I suggest you take this matter up with the airport operator, but I would also suggest doing so without first insulting them - you might get a better response.
Regards
Matthew Fleming
Aviation Security
Office of Transport Security
( 02 6274 6982
7 02 6274 7994
* Matthew.Fleming@infrastructure.gov.au