Australia's ASIO warns of escalating espionage threats

Mike Burgess, the head of Australia's domestic intelligence agency ASIO, has issued a stark warning about increasing threats from espionage, foreign interference, and potential sabotage over the next five years. In his annual threat assessment, he highlighted that multiple countries are aggressively seeking information about Australia’s military capabilities, particularly targeting defense personnel both in person and online. The AUKUS alliance, comprising Australia, the U.S., and Britain, remains a priority target for intelligence collection, even from nations considered friendly. Burgess pointed out that at least three countries have plotted to harm individuals in Australia, with instances of foreign intelligence services attempting to orchestrate 'accidents' against human rights activists. The landscape of foreign espionage is changing, with authoritarian regimes becoming more reckless and aggressive, making Australia's national security more precarious than ever. Experts agree that the rise in such threats is alarming and calls for heightened awareness and vigilance among Australian communities.