National Security Assurance

The University of Newcastle is committed to ensuring we comply with the legislation related to national security and foreign influence and foreign interference.

In universities there are several ways foreign interference can occur:

1. Influence over research: Foreign governments may attempt to steel research to outcomes that align with their national interests. This could involve pressure on academics to work on research that benefits foreign countries or even intellectual property theft.
2. Exploitation of international students: Universities could face pressure to align policies or processes with the interests of foreign governments who may use students to exert influence or gather intelligence.
3. Funding and partnerships: International funding may have strings attached, where the donor expects to influence research outcomes, curriculum, or other aspects of academic life.

Staff and students should stay informed and aware of these risks to help maintain our research excellence, protect our academic freedoms and ensure the welcoming and secure learning environment all students and staff deserve.

Reporting Foreign Interference

If you have concerns and want to report foreign interference activity at the University, please contact the National Security team at National-Security-Compliance@newcastle.edu.au

If the activity or event is an emergency and there is a threat of danger, call emergency service on 000.

You may also report:

• Using the National Security hotline provided by the Australian Government.
• Directly to ASIO for national security concerns through their Notable Incidents, Threats or Reportable Observations (NITRO) Portal.

Compliance Obligations

These pages provide information and resources on the legal responsibilities related to foreign interference and national security – there are both individual responsibilities and organisational responsibilities that need to be met.

• Defence Industry Security Program (DISP)
• Defence Export Controls
• Foreign Arrangements Scheme
• Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme
• Sanctions
• University Foreign Interference Taskforce Guidelines