I’d like to thank every single person who signed this petition. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus dropped the prosecution against Bernard Collaery on Thursday, 7 July 2022.

I previously told you that we had delivered 76,000 signatures to the AG, the PM and the CDPP. We will now ensure that the final tally of just under 80,000 signatures is made known to the new government.

I am attaching a link to the Press Release of Gilbert and Tobin, the lawyers who acted for Mr Collaery pro bono. It contains a statement by Bernard expressing his gratitude and relief. Of supporters like yourselves, he wrote:

"I want to thank all of the people across Australia who have supported me and worked so hard to assist me throughout this case. I am in awe of the depth of support in our community for ethical values."

The Timor Sea saga is not yet over I’m afraid. The fact of the spying remains a huge blot on Australia, reducing our standing in the world. A comprehensive investigation into that espionage is now required. There may well be more petitions in regard to these serious matters.

Thank you once again for your terrific support.