Australia proposes new ASIO powers to secretly probe universities

The Australian government is considering amendments to the Foreign Relations Act that would grant the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) expanded powers to conduct secret investigations into universities. Under the proposed changes, ASIO could probe academic institutions without the requirement to provide formal security assessments or notify the universities involved.

The legislative push follows warnings from the federal education department regarding risks of foreign interference and espionage. Reports indicated that several universities had engaged in research collaborations with scientists in Iran, including drone-related studies. The amendments would also introduce a ‘national interest test’ for university arrangements, allowing the Foreign Minister to intervene in collaborations based on security, economic, or foreign policy considerations.

University representatives, including the University of Queensland, have expressed concerns regarding the broadness of these powers. They noted that without a clear definition of ‘national interest,’ the minister could potentially intervene in harmless academic arrangements. Meanwhile, the federal government maintains that these measures are necessary to protect national security and ensure research integrity.