While increasing globalisation and rapid technological advancements present many benefits to Australia, they also create unique national security challenges.
Australia’s Office of National Intelligence (ONI) was formed in late 2018, representing a milestone in the formation of Australia’s new National Intelligence Community (NIC). The ONI manages and supports the integration of government intelligence functions that comprise the NIC, producing intelligence assessments on international political, strategic and economic developments for the government.
Who comprises the NIC?
The NIC works to collect, analyse and disseminate intelligence information and advice in accordance with Australia’s interests and national security priorities.
This work is carried out by a wide range of government agencies, who each fulfil a specific function in helping to ensure Australia’s national security.
Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC)
AUSTRAC is Australia’s financial intelligence agency, providing critical intelligence to assist in the fight against serious and organised crime, terrorism financing and money laundering.
Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)
The ASIS obtains and distributes secret intelligence from human sources about the capabilities, intentions and activities of individuals or organisations outside Australia, which may impact Australia’s interests and the well-being of its citizens. ASIS also undertakes counter-intelligence activities which protect Australia’s national security, foreign relations and national economic well-being.
Australian Federal Police (AFP)
The AFP is Australia’s national law enforcement organisation, with a strong focus on counter-terrorism, national and transnational crime, and national security.
Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)
The ASIO collects and assesses intelligence on domestic and international security threats to Australian interests, providing security assessments and advice to government.
Department of Home Affairs
Brings together Australia’s federal law enforcement, national and transport security, criminal justice, emergency management, multicultural affairs and immigration, and border-related functions and agencies.
Australian Signals Directorate (ASD)
The ASD defends Australia from global threats and advances our national interests through the provision of foreign signals intelligence, cyber security and offensive cyber operations to assist in the fight against cyber criminals and safeguard Australian networks.
Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC)
The ACIC works with national and international law enforcement partners on criminal investigations and collects intelligence to improve the national ability to respond to crime impacting Australia.
Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO)
Collects and analyses geospatial and imagery intelligence in support of Australia’s defence and national interests.
Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO)
DIO produces intelligence assessments on countries and foreign organisations relevant to Australia’s security and strategic environment. This includes military capabilities, weapons systems, cyber threats and defence-related technologies.
