For the purposes of this Part, in deciding whether a thing would, or would not, prejudice the security, defence or international relations of Australia, the Minister, a delegate of the Minister or the Secretary:
(a) must have regard to the criteria prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph; and
(b) may have regard to any other matters that the Minister, delegate of the Minister or Secretary considers appropriate.
Note: If after applying this section in relation to a decision under this Part, a delegate of the Minister is satisfied that a thing would prejudice the security, defence or international relations of Australia, the delegate may be required to refer the matter to the Minister or to a more senior delegate of the Minister: see subsections 73(7) to (10).