Report: Foreign Espionage Cost Australia AU$12.5B in Fiscal Year 2023-24

story

AUG 1

Above: The portrait of ASIO Director-General of Security Mike Burgess was taken in Canberra on Feb. 28, 2024. Image copyright: Alex Ellinghausen/Sydney Morning Herald/Getty Images

story last updated AUG 2

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

While espionage costs are concerning, ASIO's successful disruption of 24 major operations demonstrates that existing security measures are working effectively. The prevented costs from counter-espionage activities have saved tens of billions of dollars, showing Australia's intelligence community is successfully protecting national interests despite the challenges.

Aspistrategist The Conversation

Opposition narrative

The $12.5 billion espionage cost shows Australia faces unprecedented foreign intelligence threats that demand immediate action. Defense workers carelessly advertising security clearances on LinkedIn are practically handing sensitive information to hostile nations. These aren't harmless networking attempts — they're sophisticated operations targeting the nation's most critical military secrets and economic advantages.

SBS News The Saturday Paper

Articles on this story

Foreign spies are targeting defence employees working on Aukus, Asio boss reveals

Report: Foreign Espionage Cost Australia AU$12.5B in Fiscal Year 2023-24

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

Opposition narrative

Articles on this story

Sign Up for Our Free NewslettersSign Up for Our Free Newsletters

Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters
Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters