The biometric passport can contain fingerprint data, though the Australian one uses a picture of the holder only, at this time.
Singapore uses a similar system to Hong Kong with a smart card and a finger print. However immigration at the main terminals at Changi is usually so efficient little time is saved. Main benefit would be at the budget terminal or land check points.
Singapore is very strong on security, citizens and permanent residents are fingerprinted and have to carry a bar coded identity card. This card has a thumb print on the back which can be matched to you in seconds using a special scanner. Before you can rent any acommodation the landlord must check your passport to confirm you are legally in the country.
Australia is a difficult country to enter but once in relatively easy to disappear. Singapore is the opposite, with very few countries requiring visas.
The absence of illegal immigrants has considerable advantages regarding the burden on the health and wefare systems, crime and terrorism. Wotrth giving your fingerprints for.