In a stark warning to the nation, Australia’s top intelligence official has revealed a “realistic possibility” that foreign governments may attempt to assassinate dissidents on Australian soil. According to Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) director-general Mike Burgess, “at least three” nations possess both the intent and capability to execute such plots.
Speaking at the 2025 Lowy Lecture, Burgess disclosed that a foreign intelligence service had recently tried to use an Australian citizen to clandestinely transmit information overseas. He further cautioned that hostile foreign entities are targeting Australia’s social cohesion, critical infrastructure, and defense secrets.
Foreign Interference and Espionage
Burgess highlighted the growing threat from nations willing to exploit internal divisions within countries they perceive as adversaries. He cited Iran’s attempt to use local criminals for arson attacks on Jewish businesses and places of worship as a case in point. “We believe there are at least three nations willing and capable of conducting lethal targeting here,” Burgess stated during his address.
The revelation follows ASIO’s uncovering of a foreign plot to recruit Australians for intelligence on the economy, critical minerals, and the AUKUS submarine program. “Reflecting ASIO’s success in making Australia an unwelcome environment for espionage, the foreign intelligence service arranged for an Australian to travel by plane and then boat to a third country for a face-to-face meeting,” Burgess explained.
“Inside information on Australia’s economy, critical minerals and AUKUS were high on the list. Little did they know ASIO was tracking and manipulating their entire activity.”
Disinformation and Social Cohesion
Meanwhile, Burgess warned that Australia’s social fabric is under unprecedented strain due to disinformation, conspiracy theories, and deliberate foreign manipulation. He pointed to Russia’s use of disinformation to sow discord and justify its invasion of Ukraine. “They use social media to spread vitriolic, polarising commentary on anti-immigration protests and pro-Palestinian marches,” he noted.
ASIO has identified three groups undermining social cohesion: individuals driven by grievance, extremist organizations exploiting social fractures, and nation-states deliberately inflaming divisions. Extremist groups, such as the far-right National Socialist Network and Hizb ut Tahrir, are becoming more adept at using public events and online rhetoric to recruit and radicalize followers.
“In terms of social cohesion, the internet is the greatest incubator of grievance narratives and conspiracy theories,” Burgess said. “While the internet incubates, social media accelerates. And while the internet incubates and social media accelerates, artificial intelligence exacerbates.”
Technological Threats and Security Measures
The convergence of online extremism, foreign interference, and technological manipulation has created a complex security environment. Burgess emphasized that while the threats are significant, they are not insurmountable. “ASIO and our law enforcement partners are acutely alive to this threat and are working around the clock, using all our powers, to protect Australia and Australians,” he assured.
Despite the challenges, Burgess expressed confidence in Australia’s resilience and the capability of its security agencies. He urged Australians to resist polarization and contribute to national stability. “You cannot spy your way to greater cohesion or arrest your way to fewer grievances,” he remarked. “Every one of us has a role to play. Our words matter, our decisions matter, our actions matter.”
“While the threats and challenges facing us are significant, they are not insurmountable,” Burgess concluded. “We should not be defeatist or insecure about our security. We can and should have confidence in our ability to respond.”
