ACIC dumps biometric identification project, blames delays

The government has dumped its beleaguered plan to introduce biometric fingerprint and facial recognition, after its project with a contractor was delayed by months.

The contract with NEC Australia was suspended on June 4 for negotiations between the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and the contractor, before it was terminated today.

It had been reported that NEC Australia staff had been walked off the premises last week before being told that the contract had been suspended.

"This decision was taken in light of project delays," ACIC chief executive Michael Phelan said in a statement on Friday afternoon.

Mr Phelan also confirmed that the Australian National Audit Office has launched an audit into the project.

More to come.