Federal Parliament urges ‘lockdown’ of electronic devices during Chinese VIP Zhao Leji’s visit

Politicians and their staff have been urged to place their phones and iPads in “lockdown” mode during a visit to Parliament House this week by a senior Chinese Communist Party official.

Zhao Leji, the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, flew into Canberra on Monday for a series of meetings, after arriving in Brisbane over the weekend.

Ahead of his arrival at Parliament House, the Department of Parliamentary services has formally advised building occupants of disruptions that can be expected during Chairman Zhao’s visit.

In advice sent to parliamentary offices on Monday morning, DPS advises staff to use “alternative routes and follow the direction of Parliamentary security officers” to “ensure a smooth visit and clear routes”.

“Suites and offices adjacent to the delegation movements may wish to ensure doors and blinds are closed during the visit for privacy,” DPS says in a message seen by The Nightly.

“There may be intermittent disruptions to Wi-Fi access during the periods outlined above. Within the identified areas, internet connected devices including phones, tablets and laptops should be powered down.”

“Where devices must be used, please ensure phones and iPads are updated with the latest software version and placed in lockdown mode, and laptops should have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth switched off.”

The DPS advice does not specify the reasons for the electronic precautions, but in recent weeks Australia’s domestic spy chief has repeatedly warned Beijing is continuing to launch sophisticated hacking attempts against this country.

On Monday, Chairman Zhao will call on Governor General Sam Mostyn at Government House, then head to Parliament House for a formal dinner with the presiding officers.

The Nightly has confirmed the senior Chinese official will also have breakfast with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday morning before he flies out of Australia.