Terrorism in Australia

A new phase of the national security information campaign has been launched in 2004 to remind Australians to remain vigilant and report possible signs of terrorism to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400. Police and security agencies are working hard but you could help them complete the picture.

Some of the best people to spot things that are out of the ordinary in the University are those who are there every day. As we go about our daily lives, we can keep an eye out for anything that may seem unusual or suspicious.

Whether or not something is suspicous can depend on the circumstances. Look at the situation as a whole. If it doesn't add up, call the 24-hour National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400. Trained operators take every call seriously and you can remain anonymous. Information is passed on to Australia's police and security agencies for analysis and further investigation. Even small pieces of information can help our security and intelligence agencies to complete the picture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Australia a potential terrorist target?

• Every country, including Australia, is a potential terrorist target:
• Like many countries around the world, Australia has been on heightened security alert since 11 September 2001.
• In November 2002, the Australian Government received, and made public, information of a possible terrorist attack within Australia.
• Security and intelligence agencies constantly monitor all available information. If the Australian Government learns of a further threat against Australia you will be advised through the news media.

Will Australia's prominence in standing up to Iraq increase the chance of a terror attack against Australia?

• The horrific events in Bali have clearly shown that Australia - along with a great many other countries - is already a target for international terrorism. Terrorists such as al Qa'ida hate the values and the way of life of free peoples and societies, such as Australia. These terrorists would not stop targeting us even if we had a different approach to the issue of Iraq.

How long will Australia be on heightened security alert?

• It is likely that we will be living with increased security for the foreseeable future.
• Terrorism has changed the world and security may never return to the relaxed levels most of us grew up with.

What is being done to protect Australia from terrorism?

• National security and law enforcement agencies, including ASIS, ASIO and the Federal Police, as well as the Defence Forces, have been significantly upgraded.
• A National Counter-Terrorism Plan is in place, detailing how Australian and state and territory governments and national security agencies work together to detect, prevent and respond to terrorism.
• About $1.4 billion is being spent to strengthen our counter-terrorist capability.

How will I be kept informed?

• In an emergency situation, the Australian Government will keep all Australians informed about what is happening through public statements on news media, including television, radio, newspapers and the Internet.Try to watch, listen to or read the news every day and keep an eye out for essential information.
• Further information is available from contacts on this website.

Should I stay away from shopping centres, sporting events or change my holiday plans?

• There is no reason for any of us to stay away from public places or change our normal routines or domestic holiday plans, other than to allow additional time for increased security checking.
• It is essential that we do not allow the threat of terrorism to change the way of life we value so highly.
• If the Australian Government receives credible information that there are places in Australia you should stay away from, you will be officially advised through the news media and relevant authorities.

What should I do if travelling overseas?

• If travelling overseas, it is essential that you keep yourself informed of the security status of the countries you are visiting.
• Before you leave Australia, contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 1300 555 135 and they can give you the up-to-date security status for more than 120 countries. You can also access this information while you are away www.dfat.gov.au/travel
• The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also has a registration service for Australians overseas to make it easier to contact you in an emergency.

How likely is a chemical, biological or radiological attack by terrorists?

• The current advice from official intelligence services is that the likelihood of this kind of terrorist attack in Australia is low.
• Health authorities and emergency services have detailed plans in place to deal with a situation and treat those affected.
• In a chemical, biological or radiological incident, the most important thing to remember is to minimise your exposure, then watch your television or listen to your radio and wait for emergency services to tell you what to do.
• Stockpiles of antibiotics, vaccines, anti-viral drugs and chemical antidotes are in place.

Is there a list of possible terrorist acts to look out for?

• There is no definitive list. Terrorists rely on surprise, so we cannot predict every possible situation. Whether or not something is suspicious can depend on the circumstances.
• Look at the situation as a whole. Let your common sense and good judgement guide you.
• If it doesn't add up, ring up the 24-hour National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

What can I do to protect myself and others at work?

• Make sure you are familiar with the emergency and evacuation plans for your workplace. If you are unsure, ask your supervisor.
• If you run a business or manage a large building, review your security measures. You should also review your emergency and evacuation plans. Rehearse them, update if necessary, and make sure every member of your staff knows what to do.
• Keep a careful check on garages and underground car parks so that you know whose vehicles are on your premises.
• If you have security cameras, make sure they are working properly, check that the time and date are correct, and retain the tapes in case they might be of use to police later.

What if my children become concerned or anxious about terrorism?

• Talk with your children about what is happening and what is being done to protect them. Encourage them to say how they feel.
• Be honest about things being discussed in the media and in your community.
• If anyone in your family becomes anxious to a point where it starts interfering with daily life, consult a health professional.

Information source: www.nationalsecurity.gov.au