Australia’s approach to international relations, characterized by restraint and de-escalation, is being exploited by adversaries, including China and Iran. This warning comes from Andrew Shearer, the director-general of the Office of National Intelligence, during a speech to the Australia Japan Business Co-operation Committee in Perth on October 23, 2023.
Shearer emphasized that the global military balance is shifting against Western powers. He noted that Australia’s ability to deter threats is “eroding.” He stated, “Our adversaries are exploiting our preference for restraint and de-escalation and leveraging coercion, cyberattacks, sabotage and disinformation to test us without triggering outright conflict.”
The director-general outlined how adversaries often act through proxies, including organized crime syndicates, front companies, armed groups, or maritime militias. These tactics take advantage of the openness of Australian society and economy, making them particularly challenging for liberal democracies to counter.
As Shearer pointed out, “They have become the day-to-day reality for governments, but also increasingly, for businesses.” His remarks coincided with the signing of the new Pukpuk defence treaty between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape. This agreement aims to strengthen bilateral relations and establish a commitment to respond collectively to armed attacks.
Examples of these exploitative tactics include recent attacks on Jewish sites in Australia, which were coordinated by the Iranian government, as revealed by national intelligence reports. Additionally, Shearer highlighted the growing threat from Chinese cyber-hacks and noted that Beijing’s assertiveness in the South China Sea is further increasing the risk of confrontation.
“Crises are more frequent, and both malign states and non-state actors are more willing to test boundaries to understand the challenges we face,” Shearer stated. He emphasized that while economic openness is vital for productivity and living standards, it also provides adversaries with opportunities to exert leverage and influence.
As Andrew Shearer prepares to leave his role in December 2023, his insights serve as a critical reminder of the evolving security landscape facing Australia and its allies. The Office of National Intelligence, which advises the Prime Minister on national security matters, continues to monitor these threats closely, urging a recalibration of response strategies to ensure Australia’s security and resilience in a complex geopolitical environment.
