(1)   What is the total number of sniffer-dogs owned by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) that are trained to detect (a) drugs and (b) explosives.

(2)   In respect of training AFP sniffer-dogs to detect explosives; (a) how many dogs are currently undergoing such training, (b) how long does it take, (c) what is the total cost for each dog and (d) how is that cost disbursed.

(3)   What is the average working life of a trained explosives sniffer-dog.

(4)   How many types or categories of explosives are trained AFP sniffer-dogs able to detect.

(5)   In any 24-hour period, how many hours can a trained sniffer-dog be tasked to actively and effectively detect explosives.

(1)  

(a)   Six.

(b)   The AFP has 22 explosive detection canines, comprising 16 Counter Terrorism First Response and six specifically trained for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) duties.

(2)  

(a)   20 canines are in pre-course development assessing their suitability to undertake a full training course. Six canines will be assigned to new APEC handlers at the conclusion of the handler’s course in December 2006.

(b)   An APEC course for sworn handlers runs for 12 weeks. Ongoing training is required post-course to induct new canine handling teams into the operational areas.

(c)   The estimated cost per operational canine at the completion of all training is $90,000.

(d)   Cost distribution includes purchase of the canine, training aids, veterinary expenses and specialised canine equipment. This figure also contains a contribution to the cost of conducting a course and support infrastructure for the canine teams.

(3)   Eight years.

(4)   Three primary categories of explosive and then specific compounds within each category. The numbers of compounds within each category is: Powders - Two; Commercial explosives - Four; and Military explosives - Three.

(5)   This will vary on a case by case situation, with consideration to climate, canine attitude, search difficulty (terrain) and the specific search requirements. Searches can take 5 - 20 minutes, but if required can deploy for hours. There is nothing to preclude a canine team from working a 24 hour period, provided suitable breaks are allowed to ensure the canine maintains its determination.