Description: Director General of the Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) Mike Burgess presented the annual national threat report which focused on cyber-attacks, radicalization, sabotage and enhanced espionage attempts. Mark stated that Australia has been considerably targeted by opposing state – backed organizations through continuous cyber-attacks which targeted crucial infrastructure and used social media platforms to radicalize the Australian youth. Mark also mentioned that the AUKUS program, which is a strategic alliance between Australia, the UK and the US has been severely targeted especially with regional tensions on a historic high.
Impact: Australia is a key western ally and a crucial driving force for extending their interests in the Indo – Pacific. The threats outlined by ASIO’s Director General shouldn’t come as a surprise with China and Russia topping the threat lists. With key elections looming in the country Australia would aim to enhance cybersecurity preparedness, inter – intelligence agencies cooperation in order to effectively counter and disrupt security and espionage plots targeting infrastructure, individuals and national security. Opposing governments such as Iran and especially China would further increase covert offensive activity which would be aimed at weakening Australia’s position in the Indo – Pacific as a pivotal western ally.