The federal government is seeking expanded powers to collect and share biometric information in order to support new anti-terrorist measures at airports.

Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (ACBPS) said new legislation was required for its eGate facial recognition system, intended to stop suspected terrorists entering or leaving the country, to work effectively.

Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Scott Morrison. Credit:Wolter Peeters

Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Scott Morrison announced Friday the electronic departure gates would be rolled out at major airports from mid-next year at a cost of $158 million.

Neither the ACBPS nor the Attorney-General's office would provide details of the proposed legislation. It's understood it will be included in a package of laws to enhance national security.