The National Security Podcast

What is sports diplomacy and why is it important to Australia’s foreign policy? 

What is the rationale behind the PNG-Australia rugby league deal?  

How are sporting events being weaponised to undermine social cohesion or reflect geopolitical tensions?  

In this episode, Bianca Birdsall and Stuart Murray join David Andrews to discuss the role of sport as it relates to Australia’s national security – in diplomacy, foreign policy, and as a vector for insecurity, violence, crime, and societal unrest.  

Bianca Birdsall is a Senior Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC), on secondment from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.  

Dr Stuart Murray is an Associate Professor in International Relations and Diplomacy at Bond University.   

David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at NSC.  

Show notes  

• ADF-run sports program in Fiji 
• First Nations netball team   
• First Nations netball Coaching Course  
• PNG NRL team $600m deal 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What makes the space domain critical to Australia’s defence and security? 

What is our constellation of defence partners in space? What assets does Australia bring to these relationships?  

What are the challenges and opportunities in the space domain?  

Is Australia contributing to what some critics call the “militarisation of space”?  

In this episode, Greg Novak joins Rory Medcalf to discuss the importance of space to Australia’s national interest, collaboration with industry and the civilian space sector and collaboration with like-minded partners in the space domain.  

Major General Greg Novak is Defence Space Commander in the Australian Space Command.  

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Defence Strategic Review  
• National Defence Strategy  
• Defence Space Strategy  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can we expect from Indian foreign and security policy under a third Modi government?

How does the India-Russia relationship impact India’s foreign policy and cooperation with Western partners?

How can India manage its strategic ambitions amidst region instability – including its deteriorating relationship with China?

How do Australia and other Western powers balance their interests in strategic cooperation with India alongside challenges to political trust that have emerged recently? 

In this episode, Ian Hall and Darshana Baruah join Rory Medcalf to discuss India’s evolving place in the world, from its immediate neighbourhood to bilateral relationships with global powers. 

Professor Ian Hall is a Professor of International Relations at Griffith University. He is also an Academic Fellow of the Australia India Institute.

Darshana Baruah is Director of Security and Geopolitics at the Australia India Institute and an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think thanks, journalism and academia.   

Show notes  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Darshana Baruah's book: The Contest for the Indian Ocean
• Ian Hall’s books: The Engagement of India: Strategies and Responses and Assessing Australia’s Strategic Personalities  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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How have alliances and security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific evolved in recent years? What trends can be identified? 

How does the current security environment compare to previous eras of alliance formation? What lessons can we draw?  

Are we seeing a strategic convergence between the Euro-Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific? Between NATO and the network of US bilateral alliances in Asia? 

In this episode, Alexander Lanoszka and Susannah Patton join David Andrews to discuss the evolving role of alliances and security partnerships on the global stage.  

Alexander Lanoszka is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the Balsillie School of International Affairs at the University of Waterloo. He is also an Associate Fellow at the UK-based Council on Geostrategy and a Senior Fellow at the Ottawa-based Macdonald-Laurier Institute.  

Susannah Patton is Director of the Southeast Asia program at the Lowy Institute and the Project Lead for the Asia Power Index.  

David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College.  

Show notes  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Alexander Lanoszka’s book: ‘Military Alliances in the Twenty-First Century’ 
• Susannah Patton’s Lowy Interpreter article: ‘From global to regional: Australia’s focus narrows’ 
• Lowy Institute Asia Power Index 
• Pew Research Centre  
• Institute of Southeast Asian Studies’ State of Southeast Asia Survey 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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What are the priorities of the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and how have they evolved to reflect our strategic environment?  

What is the importance of and strategic reasoning for AUKUS Pillar Two? 

What misconceptions exist about defence research at universities?  

How does industry, policy, and research intersect to contribute to deterrence and generating an asymmetric technological advantage?  

In this episode, Tanya Monro joins Rory Medcalf to discuss innovation, science and technology, the National Defence Strategy, the Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator, defence research, and universities against the backdrop of AUKUS Pillar 2.   

Professor Tanya Monro AC FAA FTSE is Chief Defence Scientist at the Department of Defence. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His experience spans three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• DSR: Defence Strategic Review 2023 
• NDS: National Defence Strategy  
• Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator  
• Defence Trade Controls Amendment Act 2024 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is Australia’s concept of ‘National Defence’ and where does AUKUS fit into it? 

What misconceptions exist about AUKUS Pillar One? 

What progress has been made to realise the potential of AUKUS Pillar Two?  

In this episode, Hugh Jeffrey joins Rory Medcalf to discuss Australia’s current strategic landscape, the Defence Strategic Review, National Defence Strategy, and AUKUS.  

Hugh Jeffrey is Deputy Secretary Strategy, Policy, and Industry at the Department of Defence.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism, and academia. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• DSU: Defence Strategic Update 2020 
• DSR: Defence Strategic Review 2023 
• NDS: National Defence Strategy  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How is ‘stabilisation’ of the Australia-China relationship being viewed in Brussels, and other European capitals? 

How could Australia and Europe better work together to limit China’s global influence? 

And what lessons can Canberra learn from Brussels' approach to economic security – particularly with regard to electric vehicles? 

In this episode, Janka Oertel joins Rory Medcalf to discuss how Europe is approaching the ‘China challenge’. 

Dr Janka Oertel is Director of the Asia Programme and a Senior Policy Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism, and academia.

Show notes  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more
• Trust and trade-offs: How to manage Europe’s green technology dependence on China by Alexander Lipke, Janka Oertel, and Daniel O’Sullivan
• Security recall: The risk of Chinese electric vehicles in Europe by Janka Oertel

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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Why is the resilience of Australia’s democracy critical to our freedom and privilege?  

What challenges does social media pose to the functioning of our democracy? 

How do tears in our social fabric exacerbate anti-democratic behaviour? 

In this episode, Tom Rogers and Clare O’Neil discuss the importance of, and challenges facing, elections and democracy. With framing introductions from Rory Medcalf and Genevieve Bell. 

Note: This episode was recorded from a public session, ‘The Future of Elections,’ part of a two-day conference hosted by the ANU National Security College in partnership with the Australian Electoral Commission and International IDEA.  

Tom Rogers is the Australian Electoral Commissioner  

The Hon Claire O’Neil MP is the Minster for Home Affairs and Cyber Security  

Professor Genevieve Bell is the Vice-Chancellor and President of the Australian National University 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism, and academia. 

Show notes 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Full version with panel and Q&A - The future of elections and Australian democracy 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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Is terrorism becoming a more prevalent threat in Western societies, or are we getting better at identifying potential terrorists and extremists? 

How are terrorist and extremist groups taking advantage of a new, more connected world to further their objectives? 

Has there been a shift towards embracing the role of women in both terrorist organisations and the intelligence community? 

In this episode, Bruce Hoffman, Amira Jadoon, and Aaron Zelin join Bianca Birdsall to discuss international terrorist incidents, the looming threat of domestic extremism, and the shifting counterterrorism landscape – from gender roles to technology advancements. 

Professor Bruce Hoffman is a tenured professor in Georgetown University’s Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service and is currently the Shelby Collum and Katherine W. Davis Senior Fellow for Counterterrorism and Homeland Security at the Council on Foreign Relations. 

Dr Amira Jadoon is an Assistant Professor in the department of Political Science at Clemson University, previously working at the U.S. Military Academy, jointly appointed in the department of Social Sciences and the Combating Terrorism Center. 

Dr Aaron Zelin is the Gloria and Ken Levy Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, where he also directs the Islamic State Worldwide Activity Map project.  

Bianca Birdsall is a Senior Advisor at the ANU National Security College.

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• God, Guns, and Sedition by Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware 
• Your Sons are at your service by Aaron Zelin 
• The Islamic State in Afghanistan and Pakistan: Strategic Alliances and Rivalries by Amira Jadoon with Andrew Mines 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the dynamics behind the sudden raft of economic security challenges Australia is confronting?  

What policy and institution settings need to be redesigned for the new world we find ourselves in?  

How can Australia look to diversify its trade and resources in order to steer clear of global supply chain tensions? 

In this session, Jeffrey Wilson, Tania Constable, Swati Dave, Darren Lim, Helen Mitchell, and Christopher Flynn assess Australia’s economic readiness to deal with future strategic shocks and the importance of building economic resilience, securing supply chains, and protecting critical sectors.  

Dr Jeffrey Wilson is the Director of Research and Economics at Australian Industry Group  

Tania Constable PSM is the CEO of the Minerals Council of Australia  

Swati Dave is the Advisory Board Chair at the Centre for Australia-India Relations  

Dr Darren Lim is a Senior Lecturer at the ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences  

Helen Mitchell is a Sir Roland Wilson Scholar at the ANU National Security College  

Christopher Flynn is a Partner at Gilbert + Tobin 

Show notes 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Full version with Q&A - Economic security: shocks, preparedness and resilience  
• Unlocking economic security: A strategic playbook for Australia by Helen Mitchell 

Note: This episode was recorded during NSC’s Securing our Future conference on 9 April 2024. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is social licence a licence for? What are the public signing up to? 

How do other nations restructure the national security discussion to involve people, rather than just informing them? 

As a diverse and multicultural nation, how can we use technology to broaden public consultation?  

In this episode, James Brown, Dai Le, Christian Fjäder, Lisa Singh, and James Mortensen join Duncan Lewis to discuss the role of social licence, how it is generated, and how much licence is enough. They explore lessons from comparable liberal democracies and Australia's own history in achieving lasting policy support. 

James Brown is the Chairman of Invictus Australia.   

Dai Le MP is the independent Federal Member for Fowler. 

Dr Christian Fjäder is the CEO of Geostrategic Intelligence Group. 

The Hon Lisa Singh is the CEO of the Australia India Institute. 

Dr James Mortensen is a Lecturer and the HDR Program Coordinator at the ANU National Security College (NSC). 

Professor Duncan Lewis AO DSC CSC is a Professor in the Practice of National Security at NSC. 

Note: This episode was recorded during NSC’s Securing our Future conference, 9-10 April 2024.   

Show notes:   

• Full version with Q&A – Social licence for national security: what’s the mandate? 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the objectives of China’s foreign and security policies under Xi Jinping?  

What is the role of Australia and other middle powers in responding to Chinese actions in the Indo-Pacific?  

Are the United States’ China policies set to change with future shifts in the international order?   

In this episode, Sheena Chestnut Greitens and Dan Blumenthal join David Andrews to discuss the drivers of the China and the United States’ security policies, the role of China in the international order, middle powers, and deterrence.  

Sheena Chestnut Greitens is an Associate Professor at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. She is currently a Visiting Associate Research Professor of Indo-Pacific Security at the United States Army War College.  

Dan Blumenthal is a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on East Asian security in Sino-American relations, and a Distinguished Visting Professor at the US Naval War College.  

David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College.  

Show notes  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Playing both sides of the US-Chinese rivalry by Sheena Chestnut Greitens and Isaac Kardon 
• From Coercion to Capitulation, How China Can take Taiwan Without a War by Dan Blumenthal et al 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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Is the decline of democracy being overblown?  

How has social media reshaped democracy, for better and for worse?  

How can the next generation of leaders sustain and strengthen democracy? 

In this episode, George Brandis, Tom Rogers, Atul Sharma, and Ketty Chen join Janine O’Flynn to discuss elections, institutions, opportunities, and challenges for democracy in the coming years. 

Professor The Hon George Brandis KC is a Professor in the Practice of National Security, Policy and Law at the ANU National Security College (NSC) and ANU College of Law. 

Tom Rogers is the Australian Electoral Commissioner.  

Dr Atul Sharma is a member of the NSC Youth Council. 

Dr Ketty Chen is the Taiwan Country Representative and Head of Taipei Office at the National Democratic Institute.

Professor Janine O’Flynn is the Director of the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy. 

Show notes 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

Note: This episode was recorded during NSC’s Securing our Future conference on 10 April 2024. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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What is the likelihood of the AUKUS partnership expanding to include Japan, Korea, Canada, and New Zealand? How would this impact the strategic objectives of AUKUS? 

Should AUKUS be formally separated, and the partners instead manage nuclear submarines and advanced capabilities under different agreements? 

What are some challenges and risks to the future success of AUKUS?  

In this episode, Justin Burke and Jada Fraser join David Andrews to explore the evolving dynamics of the AUKUS agreement, the potential inclusion of other nations in advanced capability projects, and the broader impact on regional security. 

Jada Fraser is the Indo-Pacific Minilaterals Fellow with the Yokosuka Council on Asia-Pacific Studies. 

Justin Burke is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). 

David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at NSC.  

Show notes:  

• AUKUS is America's Litmus Test for Integrated Deterrence by Jada Fraser  
• Let AUKUS be AUKUS: Is It Time to Separate Submarines from Advanced Capabilities? By David Andrews 
• Australia’s Defence Strategic Review 
• The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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How does distrust in democratic institutions and political leaders affect social cohesion in Australia?  

Is the rise of authoritarianism within democracies a symptom of broader systemic problems?  

How can democratic institutions in Australia counter challenges like terrorism, radical extremism, and threats to cybersecurity? 

In this episode, Misha Zelinsky, Lydia Khalil, and James Paterson join Jane Halton to discuss the current challenges and threats to democracy and its institutions, particularly in Australia. 

Professor Jane Halton AO PSM FAICD is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). 

Misha Zelinsky is an Expert Associate at NSC. 

Lydia Khalil is a Research Fellow at the Lowy Institute. 

Senator James Paterson is the Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and the Shadow Minister for Cyber Security. 

Show notes:  

• Full version with Q&A – It wouldn’t happen in Australia: can the centre hold? 
• Keynote addresses by the Hon Clare O’Neil MP and Secretary of Department of Home Affairs, Stephanie Foster PSM at Securing our Future 
• Edelman Trust Barometer
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

Note: This episode was recorded during NSC’s Securing our Future conference on 9 April 2024.  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor?

How does it differ from other oversight bodies? 

And what are the legal and policy issues we are grappling with that have prompted a Secrecy Review? 

In this episode, Jake Blight joins Danielle Ireland-Piper to discuss secrecy laws, how they fit into the national security landscape, and his organisation's recent review.

Jake Blight is the current Independent National Security Legislation Monitor, and previously an Associate Professor in the Practice of National Security Law with the ANU National Security College (NSC). 

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is an Associate Professor and Academic Director at NSC.   

Show notes:  

• Independent National Security Legislation Monitor: Secrecy Review Background 
• Legal literacy: This two-day program, co-designed with the ANU College of Law, introduces reading and using relevant legislation, how the Constitution affects national security laws, the role of international law and the ways our national security laws are made, amended and overseen. 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Note: This episode was recorded during NSC’s Securing our Future conference on 9 April 2024.  

How can deterrence and diplomacy be integrated to preserve peace, stability, and the conditions for prosperity in the Indo Pacific? 

Is development assistance a tool of strategic competition, or is it a tool for deterrence? 

What does effective deterrence look like for Australia and its allies in the Indo-Pacific? 

In this episode, Richard Maude, Greg Moriarty, Huong Le Thu, and Richard Fontaine join Rory Medcalf to discuss the integration of deterrence and diplomacy in the practice of statecraft in the Indo-Pacific. 

Richard Maude is Executive Director of Asia Society Australia. 

Greg Moriarty is Secretary of the Department of Defence. 

Dr Huong Le Thu is Asia Deputy Director for the International Crisis Group. 

Richard Fontaine is Chief Executive Officer of the Center for a New American Security.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:  

• Full version with Q&A – Indo-Pacific statecraft: deterrence and diplomacy  
• 2024 National Defence Strategy  
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How does Australia’s recently released National Defence Strategy (NDS) differ from a Defence White Paper?

What are the merits of having a bipartisan approach to defence policymaking? How important is it to clearly communicate these concepts to the public?

Is the NDS’ focus on deterrence and denial well-suited to today’s geopolitical landscape?

Should Australia have an unclassified National Security Strategy and National Military Strategy to complement the National Defence Strategy?

In this episode, Elizabeth Buchanan and Andrew Carr join David Andrews to analyse the merits and shortcomings of the 2024 National Defence Strategy.

Dr Elizabeth Buchanan is an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College (NSC). She is also an Associate Researcher with the French Ministry of Armed Forces’ Institute for Strategic Research, Senior Fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, and was previously Head of Research for the Royal Australian Navy’s Sea Power Centre.

Dr Andrew Carr is a Senior Lecturer at the ANU Strategic and Defence Studies Centre. He is also currently a member of the ANU-Defence Strategic Policy History Project, writing a history of Australian Defence White Papers from 1976-2020.

David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at NSC.

Show notes:

• Launch of the 2024 National Defence Strategy by the Hon Richard Marles MP
• 2024 National Defence Strategy and 2024 Integrated Investment Program
• Defence White Papers
• Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN)
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why is it important to consider Australia's national identity when discussing matters related to national security?

What does a shared sense of national identity look like for Australia today? 

What are some of the frailties and risks that Australia faces when it comes to maintaining social cohesion? 

In this episode, Zoe McKenzie, Allegra Spender, Wesa Chau, Asmi Wood and Afeeya Akhand join Ian Kemish to discuss the importance of Australian values, national identity, and social cohesion in guiding Australia’s strategic priorities.

Zoe McKenzie MP is the Federal Member for Flinders 

Allegra Spender MP is the Federal Member for Wentworth 

Wesa Chau is the Director of Public Policy at the Multicultural Leadership Initiative 

Professor Asmi Wood is a Professor at the ANU College of Law and Sub-Dean (Indigenous) 

Afeeya Akhand is a Youth Council Member at the ANU National Security College (NSC). 

Ian Kemish AM is a Distinguished Advisor at NSC.  

Show notes: 

• Watch the entire video with Q&A
• Keynote address by the Hon Tim Watts MP 
• Keynote address by the Hon Andrew Hastie MP 
• PJCIS - Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security 
• A Rightful Place by Noel Pearson | Symbolic indigenous recognition for all of us 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

Note: This episode was recorded during the NSC’s ‘Securing our Future’ conference on 10 April 2024. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why is it important to include young voices in policymaking? 

Would commitments to long-term policymaking at a multilateral level push Australia and other countries to apply these principles domestically? 

Can state-based wellbeing frameworks guide national decision-making in Australia?  

In this episode, Sophie Howe and Caitlin Figueiredo join Dayle Stanley to for a future-focused discussion on the importance of long-term policy making. 

Sophie Howe was the first Future Generations Commissioner for Wales and is a member of the ANU National Security College (NSC) Futures Council. 

Caitlin Figueiredo is the 2024 ACT Young Australian of the Year and the former co-chair of the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition. 

Dayle Stanley is the Chief Futures Officer at the NSC Futures Hub. 

Show notes:  

• Sophie Howe Ted Talk  
• How did there come to be a Future Generations Commissioner in Wales? 
• UN Summit for the Future 
• National Emergency Management Agency 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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What is the role of intelligence with respect to policy-making and national security? 

What is the concept of ‘truth to power’ and is it the right approach for intelligence assessment?  

Should intelligence agencies to be more public and open about their threat assessments? 

What is the role of open-source intelligence (OSINT) in the intelligence community (IC)? And would the Australian IC stand to benefit from a standalone OSINT agency? 

In this episode, Beth Sanner joins Peter Ford and Ben Scott to discuss how intelligence and statecraft interact and look at some key events to analyse the role of intelligence. 

Beth Sanner is a Senior Fellow at Harvard University Belfer Center and the former US Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration. 

Peter Ford is a Senior Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC).  

Ben Scott is a Senior Advisor at NSC.  

Show notes:  

• Opinion piece by Beth Sanner on 'Truth to Power': A Former Presidential Briefer Rethinks Truth to Power (thecipherbrief.com) 
• United States 2024 Annual Threat Assessment: ATA-2024-Unclassified-Report.pdf (dni.gov)  
• ASIO Director-General's Annual Threat Assessment 2024: Director-General's Annual Threat Assessment 2024 | ASIO 
• Adapting Australian intelligence to the information age by Ben Scott: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why is the 2024 election so important for the Solomon Islands and what is the future of democracy in the country?

What is the state of the Australia-Solomon Islands relationship in a post-RAMSI era?

Can Australia be more ambitious in its provision of development assistance to the Solomon Islands?

In this episode, Edward Cavanough joins Rory Medcalf to discuss the upcoming Solomon Islands election, the future of Australia’s relationship with the Solomon Islands and Edward’s new book Divided Isles: Solomon Islands and the China Switch.

Edward Cavanough is the Chief Executive Officer at The McKell Institute, an Australian think-tank. He is also an experienced analyst and journalist.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College (NSC). His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

Show notes:

·      Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: find out more [DA1] 

·      Divided Isles: Solomon Islands and the China Switch: find out more

·      Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI): find out more

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

Are we still selling tickets? [DA1]

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Why is the EU stepping up its engagement in the Indo-Pacific?  

In what ways does the EU collaborate with sub-regions within the Indo-Pacific? How can it diversify its relationship with Australia? 

And how does the EU reconcile with perceptions of it as a neo-colonial character in the Indo-Pacific? 

In this episode, Richard Tibbels joins Rory Medcalf to discuss the Europe Union’s engagement, challenges, and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific, and what it means for Australia.  

Richard Tibbels is the EU Special Envoy for the Indo-Pacific.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College (NSC). His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets
• EU Indo-Pacific Forum 2024: address from Richard Tibbels, EU Special Envoy to the Indo-Pacific
• EU Special Envoy to the Indo-Pacific Richard Tibbels in conversation with Professor Rory Medcalf
• European Security Strategy 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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In a world of geopolitical uncertainty, what is the significance of the recent ASEAN-Australia Special Summit? 

What realistically can be achieved between Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)?   

And what are the diplomatic and security challenges facing ASEAN nations? 

In this episode, Pichamon Yeophanton, Huong Le Thu and Don McLain Gill join Rory Medcalf on the sidelines of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit to assess the state of ASEAN-Australia relations, and explore the opportunities and challenges facing deeper engagement. 

Dr Pichamon Yeophantong is Head of Research and Associate Professor at the Centre for Future Defence and National Security, Deakin University at the Australian War College. 

Dr Huong Le Thu is the Asia Deputy Director at the International Crisis Group. 

Don McLain Gill is a Lecturer and a geopolitical analyst at the Department of International Studies, De La Salle University. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College (NSC). His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 
• ASEAN-Australia Special Summit 2024: find out more 
• Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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How does the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda apply to space policy? 

Why is better integration of the WPS agenda into the space sector crucial for Australia?  

And how does Australia compare to its international peers in this area?  

In this episode, Cassandra Steer and Elise Stephenson join Danielle Ireland-Piper to discuss the importance of incorporating the Women, Peace, and Security agenda into the Australian space sector.  

Dr Cassandra Steer is Deputy Director (Mission Specialists) at the Australian National University Institute for Space (InSpace).

Dr Elise Stephenson GAICD is a Gender, Space and National Security Fellow at the ANU National Security College (NSC) and the Deputy Director at the ANU Global Institute for Women's Leadership.

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is an Associate Professor and Academic Director at NSC.  

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 
• Australia’s National Action Plan for implementing the WPS agenda: find out more  
• Joint Project 9102 Phase 1: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How could global politics shift, with more than half the world's population voting in elections this year? 

How should Australia – and other liberal democracies – navigate a path forward amid growing geopolitical tension and conflict? 

And what opportunities exist for Australia to deepen ties with its longstanding partners, despite increasing uncertainty and complexity? 

In this episode, Sophia Gaston and Gideon Rachman join Rory Medcalf to discuss upcoming elections around the world, escalating global conflicts, and what may be in store for the Australia-UK relationship, following the UK’s upcoming general election.

Sophia Gaston is an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College (NSC). She is also the Head of Foreign Policy and UK Resilience at the leading Westminster think tank, Policy Exchange. 

Gideon Rachman is the Chief foreign affairs commentator for the Financial Times. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism, and academia. 

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 
• AUKUS Pillar II: find out more  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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This episode is dedicated to the memory of Faith Medcalf (1935-2023), who devoted much of her life to school education and teacher training in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. 

Have Australians lost sight of the importance of the Australia-PNG relationship? 

What impact has Prime Minister Marape’s address to the Australian Parliament, and the new security agreement had on public perceptions? 

And how can a shared history help to further develop this complex and critical relationship?  

In this episode, Ian Kemish, Oliver Nobetau and Nayahamui Rooney join Rory Medcalf to delve into the dynamics of Australia-Papua New Guinea bilateral relations, and explore how the two nations can strengthen their bond. 

Dr Nayahamui Rooney is a Lecturer with the School of Culture, History & Language in the College of Asia & the Pacific at the Australian National University (ANU).  

Ian Kemish AM is an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College (NSC), and the former Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea.  

Oliver Nobetau is an FDC Pacific Fellow at the Lowy Institute, on secondment from the Government of Papua New Guinea.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 
• Prime Minister Marape’s address to parliament: PNG Prime Minister James Marape makes historic first address to Australian parliament | Sky News Australia 
• Moving beyond the Bougainville Peace Agreement by Ian Kemish AM 
• The state of play in PNG: A momentous start to 2024 by Oliver Nobetau 
• 'Fabricated Security Space': The Manus Regional Processing Centre and gendered discourse between Australia and Papua New Guinea by Dr Nayahamui Rooney 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean to Australia? 

What challenges and opportunities does the region present for Australia and its partners? 

And how much can Australia realistically achieve in such a vast region?

In this episode, Darshana Baruah, David Brewster and Shafqat Munir join Rory Medcalf to discuss the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean to Australia and the region. 

Darshana Baruah is a Fellow with the Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace where she directs the Indian Ocean Initiative. 

David Brewster is a Senior Research Fellow at the ANU National Security College (NSC) and focuses on security in India and the Indian Ocean region, and Indo-Pacific maritime affairs. 

Shafqat Munir is a Senior Research Fellow and Head of the Bangladesh Centre for Terrorism Research at the Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of NSC. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, Intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes:  

Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): find out more 

Foreign Policy White Paper (2017): find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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As Indonesian head to the polls on 14 February, what’s important to know about the nation’s conception of democracy and its political ecosystem?  

Who are the key candidates in the presidential election — what do they represent? 

And what could be the implications of a change of government for security and diplomacy in the region?  

In this episode, Natalie Sambhi and Gary Quinlan join Rory Medcalf to discuss the upcoming Indonesian elections, and how the outcome might impact bilateral ties with Australia and security in the region. 

Dr Natalie Sambhi is a Senior Policy Fellow with Asia Society Australia and the Founder and Executive Director of Verve Research. Her research focuses on Indonesian military affairs, Indonesian defence policy and Southeast Asian security. 

Gary Quinlan AO is a former diplomat and public servant who served as Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, High Commissioner to Singapore and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, Intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9–10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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What is the nexus between domestic and regional cyber security?  

How does Australia help regional neighbours manage and respond to cyber threats?  

And how will shield six of the Australian government’s new cyber strategy change the domestic cyber agenda?   

In this episode, the Hon Tim Watts MP and Brendan Dowling join Olivia Shen to discuss Australia’s path towards becoming a world leader in cyber security by 2030, and its capacity-building role in the Indo-Pacific region.  

The Hon Tim Watts MP is the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, and is the Federal Member for Gellibrand. 

Brendan Dowling is Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology.  

Olivia Shen is a Director at the ANU National Security College on secondment from the Department of Home Affairs.  

Show notes:  

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9-10 April, 2024: secure your tickets  
• Australian Cyber Security Strategy (2023-2030). 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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What is open-source intelligence (OSINT)?

How does big data influence our understanding of “good” intelligence?

And does Australia need a dedicated OSINT agency in the National Intelligence Community?

In this episode, Dr Miah Hammond-Errey and Ben Scott join Olivia Shen to discuss the increasing importance of open-source intelligence and big data in intelligence analysis, and the evolution required from intelligence agencies to keep up.

Dr Miah Hammond-Errey is the Director of the Emerging Technology Program at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney.

Ben Scott is a Senior Advisor at the ANU National Security College, and has over 25 years of experience in diplomacy, intelligence and think tanks, including stints at the Lowy Institute and the Office of National Intelligence.

Olivia Shen is a Director at NSC on secondment from the Department of Home Affairs.

Show notes:

• Securing our Future – national security conference, 9-10 April, 2024: secure your tickets 
• ‘Adapting Australian intelligence to the information age,’
• Big Data, Emerging Technologies and Intelligence: National Security Disrupted,
• Decoding good intelligence,
• Submission to the 2024 Independent Intelligence Review

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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What is the significance of the Indian Ocean in Indo-Pacific security?

Is it useful to distinguish between traditional and non-traditional maritime threats?

And how might the AUKUS agreement reshape maritime security in the region?

In this episode, Frédéric Grare and Justin Burke join Jennifer Parker to tackle the maritime challenges facing Australia and the region.

Dr Frédéric Grare is a Senior Research Fellow at the ANU National Security College (NSC) in an expert program sponsored by the government of France.  

Justin Burke is a Senior Policy Advisor at NSC and a Non-Resident Fellow at the Centre for Maritime Strategy and Security at the Institute for Security Policy at Kiel University.  

Jennifer Parker is an Expert Associate at NSC and an Adjunct Fellow in Naval Studies at UNSW Canberra. 

Show notes: 

• Securing our Future – a national security conference: secure your tickets 
• National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): find out more 
• IUU Fishing: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.  

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Technological innovation is now one of the most consequential realms of geopolitical contestation. And in the era of big tech, the private sector has assumed power that once resided with governments. In response, we’ve seen a reassertion of industry policy, with governments trying to re-establish control. 

What happens to Australia’s national security when private companies, such as TikTok, are in the geopolitical driver’s seat?  

And how can policymakers keep up with this ever-changing industry? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Bec Shrimpton from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, joins Katherine Mansted in conversation to explore the rapidly changing landscape of big tech. 

Bec Shrimpton is the Director, Defence Strategy and National Security at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

Katherine Mansted is a Senior Fellow at the ANU National Security College, and the Executive Director, Cyber Intelligence at CyberCX

Show notes:  

National Intelligence Community and National Security College Scholarship for Women: find out more  

This episode was first published on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How has violent extremism evolved in recent decades?  

Why do the words used to discuss and describe extremism matter so much? 

And what challenges will governments, communities and individuals face in combating these threats in the digital age? 

In this episode, Dr Emily Corner, Lydia Khalil, and Professor Michele Grossman join Gai Brodtmann to discuss the evolution of violent extremism, and how these changes create new challenges for policymakers. 

Dr Emily Corner is an Associate Professor at the Australian National University and has worked extensively on projects examining terrorism, radicalisation, and the mental disorders associated with terrorist behaviour.  

Lydia Khalil is a Research Fellow on transnational challenges at the Lowy Institute and manages the Digital Threats to Democracy Project. 

Professor Michele Grossman AM is the Research Chair, Diversity and Community Resilience at Deakin University. She is a renowned expert in the areas of violent extremism, radicalisation, and community engagement. 

Gai Brodtmann is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College, having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

This episode was first published Thursday, September 14, 2023 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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While social media has many benefits, there are a growing number of users – both human and machine – spreading harmful disinformation and misinformation on these networks.  

What is the difference between disinformation and misinformation? How do different actors – both state and non-state – affect society and geopolitics using social media?  

And what steps can be taken to overcome these challenges? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor Darren Linvill from Clemson University and Associate Professor Will Grant from ANU, join David Andrews in conversation to discuss the state of disinformation and misinformation on social media. 

Dr Darren Linvill is a Professor and Co-director of the Clemson University Media Forensics Hub. He studies state-affiliated social media information operations. 

Dr Will J Grant is Associate Professor at The Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science at ANU, where he researches the interaction of science and politics. He podcasts on science at The Wholesome Show. 

David Andrews is a Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Darren Linvill’s article for Irregular Warfare Initiative covers some of the themes discussed in today’s episode: Custer’s last tweet: avoiding a digital little bighorn in the fight for hearts and minds. 

This episode was first published on Thursday, April 20, 2023 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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As Taiwan’s 2024 elections draw near, who are the key candidates and what are they offering? 

How might China respond to a change of government? 

And what are the main risks and opportunities for Australia? 

In this episode, China experts Mark Harrison and Antonia Finnane join Susan Dietz-Henderson to discuss the upcoming Taiwan elections, and how the results will have implications not only for Taiwan, but for the region too. 

Mark Harrison is a Senior Lecturer in Chinese Studies at the School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania. He is also an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College (NSC). 

Antonia Finnane is an Honorary Professorial Fellow at the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies, University of Melbourne. 

Susan Dietz-Henderson is a Senior Executive Adviser at NSC, currently on secondment from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How can whistle-blowers  contribute to Australia’s national security? 

What roles do parliamentary committees and the courts play in national security oversight? 

And how should national security and secrecy be balanced with human rights and transparency?  

In this episode, Kieran Pender and Dominique Dalla-Pozza join Danielle Ireland-Piper to talk about the importance of accountability, and mechanisms of oversight, in Australia’s national security ecosystem.

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is an Associate Professor and Academic Director at the ANU National Security College.

Kieran Pender is a senior lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre. He is also an honorary lecturer at the ANU College of Law.

Dr Dominique Dalla-Pozza is a Senior Lecturer at the ANU College of Law and has also recently joined the ANU National Security College.

Show notes:    

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more   
• The National Anti-Corruption Commission: find out more  
• Independent National Security Legislation Monitor report: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What was achieved at the recent AI Safety Summit, hosted by the United Kingdom? 

How do the geopolitics of technology now impact economies and societies? 

And how can governments equip themselves better to handle these complex changes? 

In this episode, senior UK public servant Jonathan Black joins Jennifer Jackett to talk about AI, and the policy responses to it from governments across the globe. 

Jonathan Black is a Heywood Fellow at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Prior to this appointment he was the UK Prime Minister’s representative for the recent AI Safety Summit, G7 and G20 Sherpa and Deputy National Security Advisor. 

Jennifer Jackett is a Sir Roland Wilson Scholar at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:   

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more  
• AI Safety Summit 2023: find out more 
• The Bletchley Declaration: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What prompted New Zealand (NZ) to develop its inaugural National Security Strategy? 

Will NZ’s change of government mean a change of strategy? 

And can increasing alignment between NZ and Australia be expected on key security issues? 

In this episode, Anna Powles and Suzannah Jessep join Jennifer Parker to talk about New Zealand’s first National Security Strategy and what it means for the region, Australia and New Zealand itself. 

Suzannah Jessep is the Director of Research and Engagement at the Asia New Zealand Foundation. 

Dr Anna Powles is a Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Defence and Security Studies at Massey University. 

Jennifer Parker is Director, Defence Policy at the ANU National Security College 

Show notes:   

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more  
• Aotearoa's National Security Strategy: find out more 
• NZ Defence Policy and Strategy Statement 2023: find out more  
• Asia NZ Foundation report – Perceptions of Asia: find out more 
• MFAT’s 2023 Strategic Foreign Policy Assessment: find out more 
• New Zealand’s Security Threat Environment 2023: find out more 
• Australia’s Defence Strategic Review 2023: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What are the common myths around the security clearance vetting process? 

How has the process changed over the years, and what reforms have ASIO undertaken to ensure fairness? 

And how will a more diverse workforce help the national security community? 

In this episode, Caroline van Heuzen and Carl Chang talk to Ewan Macmillan and Vanessa from ASIO about the highest-level security clearance vetting process and how it is changing to be more inclusive. 

Vanessa is a Vetting Analyst at the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). 

Ewan Macmillan is the Deputy Director General for vetting at ASIO. 

Caroline van Heuzen is a Deputy Head at the ANU National Security College on secondment from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. 

Carl Chang is co-leader of the Mission Management Division at the Office of National Intelligence (ONI) and is ONI's Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Champion. 

Show notes:   

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more  
• Careers with ASIO: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What changes should the national security community be focused on? 

What do whole-of-nation and whole-of-government approaches to change look like?  

And how can national security objectives integrate with these efforts to drive change? 

As part of the annual Women in National Security event, the ANU National Security College had the pleasure of hosting over 250 attendees for a live podcast recording at the National Gallery of Australia. In this episode Kathryn McMullan, Kim Brennan and Nu Nu Win, join Olivia Shen to  discuss the changes that will shape Australia’s national security community. Questions from the audience had the panel addressing issues of cultural representation, intersectionality and social cohesion in national security. 

Kathryn McMullan is Director of the Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation. 

Kimberly Brennan is a Partner at Ernst & Young.  

Nu Nu Win is a Sir Roland Wilson PhD Scholar, on leave from the Treasury. 

Olivia Shen is a Director of Program and Design at the ANU National Security College.  

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Executive and professional development courses at NSC: find out more 
•  Modelling Australian Public Service careers: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is the difference between open-source intelligence (OSINT) and publicly available information? 

How can the private sector help intelligence agencies maintain their edge in a world saturated with data?  

And how can AI contribute to the operations and effectiveness of these agencies? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Barbara Stevens joins Ben Scott to discuss open-source intelligence and how intelligence agencies are navigating rapid technological advancements. 

Dr Barbara Stevens is a current member of the Board of Directors at Hexagon US Federal and a former CIA executive who has previously led numerous groups of data scientists and analysts. 

Ben Scott is a Senior Advisor at the ANU National Security College. He has over 25 years’ experience in diplomacy, think tanks, intelligence and international development. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Office of the Director of National Intelligence report: find out more 
• The IC Data Strategy 2023-2025: find out more 
• CIA builds its own artificial intelligence tool in rivalry with China: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is the significance of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s upcoming visit to Beijing? 

What outcomes can realistically be achieved, given the turbulent Australia-China relationship? 

And can Australia-China relations continue to stabilise into the future?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Rowan Callick and Richard Maude join Rory Medcalf to discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s upcoming visit to China, what will be on the agenda, and how this visit might shape the bilateral relationship.

Rowan Callick is an Industry Fellow at Griffith University's Asia Institute and an Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College. 

Richard Maude is Executive Director, Policy at Asia Society Australia, and a Senior Fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• National Defence: Defence Strategic Review 2023: find out more 
• Former Ambassador Arthur Sinodinos on PM Albanese’s US visit: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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• How can Australia’s social cohesion be maintained, against a global backdrop of conflict, foreign interference and economic coercion?
• Is the nation's security architecture fit for purpose? 
• And how can the political class develop public awareness of national security challenges, without being alarmist?  

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Senator James Paterson joins Rory Medcalf to discuss some key security issues and policy issues that Australia is facing, both, domestically and at an international stage. 

Senator James Paterson is a Liberal Senator for Victoria and Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security. He is also the Australian co-chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• National Defence – Defence Strategic Review 2023: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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As Prime Minister Anthony Albanese prepares to visit President Joe Biden later this month, what priorities will be on his agenda? 

Is AUKUS at risk of overshadowing other parts of the US-Australia relationship? 

And what confidence can the Australian government have in the stability and reliability of the United States amid ongoing political turmoil?  

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, the Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO joins Rory Medcalf to discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s upcoming trip to Washington DC and the future of the Alliance. 

The Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO is a Partner and Chair of the Australia Practice of The Asia Group and a distinguished advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). He was also the Australian Ambassador to the United States from February 2020 to March 2023.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can governments keep up with the lightning pace of technological change? 

Is there a 'right' model for tech regulation? 

And what role can Australia play in this dynamic digital ecosystem? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Anu Bradford and Johanna Weaver join Jennifer Jackett to discuss the global impact of technological advances, the challenges and opportunities they bring, and the evolving landscape of tech regulation. 

Anu Bradford is a Henry L. Moses Professor of Law and International Organization at the Columbia Law School. She is also the author of ‘Digital Empires: The Global Battle to Regulate Technology’.  

Professor Johanna Weaver is the founding Director of the Tech Policy Design Centre (TPDC) at the Australian National University and a regular guest lecturer at the ANU National Security College. 

Jennifer Jackett is a Sir Roland Wilson Scholar at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Digital Empires: The Global Battle to Regulate Technology by Anu Bradford 
• Tech Mirror podcast: find out more 
• 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy: find out more 
• Quad Tech Network: an address by the Hon Clare O’Neil MP: watch the video 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why are critical and emerging technologies at the forefront of geopolitical competition? 

Can the Quad play a part in standard setting without stifling innovation?  

And how can the Quad help diversify technology supply chains without creating an ‘international cartel’? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Raji Rajagopalan, Dr Akira Igata and Dr John Hemmings join David Andrews to discuss one of Quad’s central pillars – critical and emerging technologies. 

Dr Raji Rajagopalan is the Director of the Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology, Observer Research Foundation. 

Professor Akira Igata is a Project Lecturer and the Director of the Economic Security Research Program at the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), The University of Tokyo. 

Dr John Hemmings is the Senior Director of the Indo-Pacific Foreign and Security Policy Program at the Pacific Forum. 

David Andrews is Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College.  

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Find out more about the Quad Tech Network 
• A strategy for Quad biotechnology collaboration, Dirk van der Kley and Daniel Pavlich: read more

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why is biotechnology so strategically important? 

How can the Quad successfully compete with China to harness the opportunities it presents? 

And what is at stake if ethical leadership in this field falters? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dirk van der Kley joins David Andrews to discuss the strategic importance of biotechnology and tangible ways the Quad can deliver collaborative leadership in this crucial area. 

Dr Dirk van der Kley is a Research Fellow at the ANU National Security College who specialises on technology competition and innovation between the US and China, with a particular interest in biological technologies. 

David Andrews is Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College.  

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• A strategy for Quad biotechnology collaboration by Dirk van der Kley and Daniel Pavlich: read more 
• Quad Tech Network: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How has violent extremism evolved in recent decades?

Why do the words used to discuss and describe extremism matter so much? 

And what challenges will governments, communities and individuals face in combating these threats in the digital age? 

In this episode, Dr Emily Corner, Lydia Khalil, and Professor Michele Grossman join Gai Brodtmann to discuss the evolution of violent extremism, and how these changes create new challenges for policymakers. 

Dr Emily Corner is a Senior Lecturer of Criminology at the Australian National University and has worked extensively on projects examining terrorism, radicalisation, and the mental disorders associated with terrorist behaviour.  

Lydia Khalil is a Research Fellow on transnational challenges at the Lowy Institute and manages the Digital Threats to Democracy Project. 

Michele Grossman AM is a Professor and Research Chair, Diversity and Community Resilience at Deakin University. She is a renowned expert in the areas of violent extremism, radicalisation, and community engagement. 

Gai Brodtmann is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College, having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How did a Sri Lankan migrant go from new arrival to Chief Technology Officer in Australia’s secret intelligence service? 

What barriers can migrants and members of ethnically diverse communities face while trying to forge a career in Australian intelligence? 

What steps are being taken to create more opportunities for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds at ASIS, and in the National Intelligence Community more broadly? 

In this first-of-its kind interview with an unidentified Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) officer, Carl Chang and Caroline van Heuzen talk to Raj about his journey of migrating to Australia and finding his place working with Australia's overseas secret intelligence agency. 

Raj shares the impacts of work ASIS is doing to improve CALD representation within intelligence organisations, and what this means for Australia’s national security. 

While the name and voice of this ASIS officer has been changed to protect their identify, their story remains unaltered. 

Carl Chang is co-leader of the Mission Management Division at the Office of National Intelligence (ONI) and is ONI's Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Champion. 

Raj (name changed to maintain anonymity) is the Chief Technology Officer at the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS). 

Caroline van Heuzen is a Deputy Head at the ANU National Security College on secondment from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. 

Show notes: 

• Careers at ASIS: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is quantum science and why does it matter? 

How is Australia performing in the “quantum race”?

What are some of the ethical, societal and security implications that need to be considered, as the world rushes to get this technology off the ground? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Cathy Foley and Professor Michelle Simmons join Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss Australia’s quantum strategy, the technology’s relationship to national security and its ethical and social implications. 

Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM is Australia’s Chief Scientist, providing authoritative and independent science advice on whole-of-Government science and technology priorities. She is the author for a message of introduction to Australia’s National Quantum Strategy.

Professor Michelle Simmons AO is Director of the Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology. She was also named as the 2018 Australian of the Year for her work and dedication to quantum information science.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• National Quantum Strategy : find out more 
• Quad Tech Network: find out more  
• AUKUS Pillar 2 – Advanced capabilities programme: find out more 
• How can you prepare now for the quantum computing future? (survey): find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcast. 

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What major trends will shape the next two decades? 

How can futures analysis be used to manage risk and harness opportunities? 

And how can governments better integrate futures thinking into public administration? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Joseph Voros, Odette Meli and Dr Ryan Young join Dayle Stanley to discuss the intricacies and applications of future analysis.

Dr Joseph Voros is a physicist and futurist with over 25 years of experience in futures analysis. 

Odette Meli has more than 25 years of professional experience at the Australian Federal Police, where she established and led the Strategic Insights Centre.  

Dr Ryan Young is the Director, Research & Methods at the NSC Futures Hub. 

Dayle Stanley is the Director, Strategy and Engagement at the NSC Futures Hub. 

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• FuturePod: find out more 
• Future Shock by Alvin Toffler: find out more 
• What We Owe the Future by William Macaskill: find out more 
• ANZPAA Futures and Strategic Foresight Toolkit: find out more 
• Futures Hub at the ANU National Security College: find out more
• Joseph Voros' Voroscope blog: find out more 
• UK: Government Office on Foresight: find out more 
• Canada: Policy Horizons: find out more 
• Singapore: Centre for Strategic Futures: find out more 
• US: National Intelligence Council Publications: find out more  
• New Zealand: Futures thinking: find out more 

To connect with the Futures Hub about their work or possible employment opportunities, email the team at [email protected].

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How has rapid technological advancement influenced the way the Australian Federal Police approaches forensic science?  

What is the difference between forensics conducted at a national level and that of state police forces? 

And how does the AFP proactively use forensics to protect and serve Australians?  

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Simon Walsh joins David Andrews to discuss the evolving world of forensic science and its implications for policing and national security. 

Dr Simon Walsh is the Chief Scientist, Forensics at the Australian Federal Police. 

David Andrews is the acting Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:   

•  ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more   

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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Kevin Yam has a bounty on his head. The Australian citizen, who lived in Hong Kong for 20 years, is accused of breaching the infamous national security law China imposed on Hong Kong three years ago.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, he joins Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss the future of Hong Kong, lessons from his experience inside its pro-democracy movement, and his concerns about Australian judges serving in its judicial system.

Kevin Yam is an Australia-based lawyer, presently pursuing his Master of Laws at the University of Melbourne. A Senior Fellow at Georgetown University's Center for Asian Law and an Editor-at-Large at Mekong Review, Yam is a prominent commentator on China and Hong Kong affairs. Notably, he is one of the eight activists targeted by Hong Kong's arrest warrant. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Mekong Review

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What are the common misconceptions some Americans have about Australia?

How has the Australia-United States alliance been affected by the changing international order? 

And what might the future of this relationship hold, given increasing collaboration between the two nations? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Charles Edel joins David Andrews to examine the Australia-United States relationship. 

Charles Edel is a senior adviser and the inaugural Australia Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. 

David Andrews is the acting Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:  

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Australia can be America’s green power hub in the Indo-Pacific, James Carouso and Charles Edel: read more  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How can cyber capabilities be used in atrocity prevention? 

What role could AI and machine learning play in humanitarian interventions? 

And how has the proliferation of social media contributed to violence against minorities? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Associate Professor Cecilia Jacob and Dr Rhiannon Neilsen join Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper to shed light on the role of cyber and social media in humanitarianism.  

Dr Rhiannon Neilsen is a Cyber Security Postdoctoral Fellow in the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University. 

Dr Cecilia Jacob is an Associate Professor and Fellow in the Department of International Relations at the ANU Coral Bell School of Asia and the Pacific. 

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is Associate Professor and Academic Convenor at the ANU National Security College.  

Show notes:   

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more   
• Read the GAAMAC Report: Preventing hate speech discrimination and incitement - lessons on promoting tolerance and respect for diversity in the Asia Pacific.  
• Cecilia Jacob, Foreign policy and promotion of human rights for atrocity prevention  

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.   

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Is Australia’s Chinese diaspora misunderstood? What challenges do Chinese Australians face when trying to establish a career in the Australian Public Service? And how can the national security community increase pathways for this community to enter, and stay, in this field of work?  

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Jennifer Hsu and Yun Jiang join Olivia Shen to unpack the diverse experiences of Chinese Australians and explore how these perspectives can enrich Australia's national security community. 

Dr Jennifer Hsu is the author of the Lowy Institute’s 2023 Being Chinese in Australia: Public Opinion in Chinese Communities. She is Visiting Senior Fellow at the Social Policy and Research Centre at the University of New South Wales and most recently, Research Fellow and Project Director of the Multiculturalism, Identity and Influence Project at the Lowy Institute.

Yun Jiang is the Australian Institute of International Affairs China Matters Fellow. She was previously the co-founder and editor of China Neican, managing editor of the China Story blog at the Australian Centre on China in the World at ANU, and a Commonwealth public servant.

Olivia Shen is a Director in the Executive and Professional Development Program at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• Being Chinese in Australia: Public opinion in Chinese communities - Lowy Institute 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• To share your own experiences on diversity and inclusion in the APS, please get in touch with the taskforce at [email protected] 
• The Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP on forthcoming research by economists Robert Breunig, David Hansell and Nu Nu Win: read more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What does South Korea see as its role in the Indo-Pacific? 

How does it view the nuclear threat from North Korea?

And what are the opportunities that the Australia-Korea relationship presents for regional security and stability? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Go Myong-Hyun and Dr Lee Jaehyon from the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, join Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss South Korea's Indo-Pacific strategy and its implications for regional security and stability. 

Dr Go Myong-Hyun is a research fellow at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies. 

Dr Lee Jaehyon is a research fellow and director of the Center for ASEAN and Oceanian Studies at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

Show notes: 

• Asan Institute for Policy Studies 
• Strategy for a Free, Peaceful, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific Region, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts

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What is the Australian Army doing to develop its robotic and autonomous systems capabilities? 

How likely is the prospect of autonomous 'killer robots' taking to the battlefield? 

And can the Australian Defence Force partner with industry for technical solutions while maintaining sovereign capability? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Colonel Robin Smith joins Olivia Shen to shed light on the Australian Army’s Robotic and Autonomous Systems Strategy, and how the team he leads is implementing the plan. 

Colonel Robin Smith is the inaugural Director of the Australian Army’s Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office (RICO) within Future Land Warfare Branch of the Australian Army HQ. 

Olivia Shen is Director in the Executive and Professional Development Program at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• Robotic & Autonomous Systems Strategy 
• Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation & Coordination Office (RICO)  
• Campaign to stop killer robots 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How can a better understanding of the Islamic faith help strengthen social cohesion? 

What steps can national security agencies take to ensure diverse communities feel valued? 

And how can the public service more effectively attract and retain staff from these communities? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Islamic scholar and community leader Shaykh Ahmed Abdo, along with former Commonwealth Counter Terrorism Coordinator Tony Sheehan, join Olivia Shen to discuss how Australian governments can lay the groundwork of community engagement outside of crisis, in order to grow resilience and trust among diverse communities. 

Shaykh Ahmed Abdo is an Islamic scholar and community leader in Sydney, as well as being a teacher and a mentor. Ahmed advises a range of government agencies on Islam and interfaith dialogue. 

Tony Sheehan is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College. He spent 32 years in government, including as the Commonwealth Counter-Terrorism Coordinator. 

Olivia Shen is a Director in the Executive and Professional Development Program at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College scholarships: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What are the pathways for the United States and China to improve their bilateral relationship? 

What might catalyse conflict between the two great powers?

Is Australia prepared for this scenario – and will it take a crisis to find out?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Fiona Cunningham joins Gai Brodtmann to unpack the state of US-China relations and each country’s ability and willingness to resolve conflict through open communication. Dr Cunningham also explains how Australia could manage these challenges.

Dr Fiona Cunningham is an Assistant Professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania, where she studies technology and conflict in East Asia. Her research focuses on how countries leverage nuclear space, cyber and missile technology for coercion, with a focus on China.

Gai Brodtmann is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College, having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence. 

Show notes: 

• National Intelligence Community and National Security College Scholarship for Women: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why are Australia’s intelligence agencies growing their public engagement? 

How are these agencies responding to an increasingly complex, challenging and dynamic strategic environment?

And what are intelligence leaders doing to future-proof their organisations, workforces and capabilities?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Director-General of National Intelligence, Andrew Shearer, and Director-General of Security, Mike Burgess, join Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss the state of Australian intelligence.

Andrew Shearer is Director-General of National Intelligence and head of the Office of National Intelligence.

Mike Burgess is Director-General of Security and head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

Show notes: 

• Director-General's Annual Threat Assessment, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, 2023 
• Careers in the National Intelligence Community 
• ANU National Security College scholarships: find out more 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How have historical intelligence organisations evolved into the national security agencies we know today? Who were Australia’s early intelligence professionals? And how has this rich history contributed to the formation of key signals intelligence agreements such as Five Eyes?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Clare Birgin and Professor John Blaxland join Dr Will Stoltz to discuss their recently released book, Revealing Secrets: An unofficial history of Australian Signals intelligence & the advent of cyber.

Clare Birgin is a former Australian diplomat and former Visiting Fellow at The Australian National University

John Blaxland is a Professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies at the ANU Strategic and Defence Studies Centre

Dr Will Stoltz is Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College and Senior Manager at CyberCX

Show notes: 

• Revealing Secrets: An unofficial history of Australian Signals intelligence & the advent of cyber
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What challenges does China pose to Australia’s security? And have the recent policy responses from Australian Governments been effective? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Euan Graham, IISS Shangri-La Dialogue Senior Fellow, discusses his new book, Australia's Security in China's Shadow, with Professor Rory Medcalf in front of a live audience.

The conversation follows insightful opening remarks delivered by Richard Maude, Senior Fellow at Asia Society Australia, and former Director-General of the Office of National Assessments.

Dr Carolyn Bull is Deputy Head of the ANU National Security College, seconded from the Office of National Intelligence, Australia’s peak intelligence agency.

Richard Maude is Senior Fellow at Asia Society Australia, and former Director-General of the Office of National Assessments.

Dr Euan Graham is a Shangri-La Dialogue Senior Fellow for Indo-Pacific Defence and Strategy at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

Show notes: 

• Opening remarks delivered by Richard Maude
• Book: Australia's Security in China's Shadow by Euan Graham
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is the Defence Strategic Review, and why does it matter? What does it mean for Australian strategy and defence in this contested era? And how will it shape the way the Australian Defence Force and Department of Defence adapt to the risks facing the nation?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, co-lead of the 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR) Secretariat, Professor Peter Dean, joins Professor Rory Medcalf to provide an insider's analysis of the government’s latest strategic defence document.

Show notes:  

• Defence Strategic Review 2023 
• Australian interests in a regional balance of power, National Press Club Address, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong 
• The Defence Strategic Review: a revolution in Australian defence planning?, Stephan Fruehling, The Strategist 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

Professor Peter J. Dean PhD SFHEA was co-lead of the 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR) Secretariat where he served as senior advisor and principal author for the Independent Leads, His Excellency Professor the Hon Stephen Smith and Air Chief Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK AC AFC (Retd). He is Director, Foreign Policy and Defence at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

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How is the Quad navigating China’s growing power and influence in the region? How do the four countries balance their domestic security priorities with their commitments under the partnership? And does India’s position on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine create compatibility challenges?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Darshana Baruah, Lisa Curtis and Professor Nobukatsu Kanehara join Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss the Quad partnership at a key time for Indo-Pacific diplomacy. 

Darshana M. Baruah is a Fellow with the South Asia Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace where she directs the Indian Ocean Initiative.

Lisa Curtis is Director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security.

Nobukatsu Kanehara is Professor of Political Science at Doshisha University. He was previously Assistant Chief Cabinet Secretary to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How important is Korea to Australia’s regional outlook? What elements of the Australia-South Korea relationship should be strengthened? And can South Korea continue to effectively juggle the competing security priorities of a rising China and a belligerent North Korea? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Lauren Richardson and Dr Michael Cohen join David Andrews to examine the Korean peninsula in the context of Australian foreign and security policy. 

Dr Lauren Richardson is a Lecturer in the Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs at ANU. 

Dr Michael Cohen is a Senior Lecturer and the PhD Convenor at the ANU National Security College.

David Andrews is the acting Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• Rethinking the Potential for Australia-ROK Relations, AsiaLink, Lauren Richardson: read now 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What can we learn from First Nations Australians about our obligation to country? And is enough being done to protect native title owners from foreign interference?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Lieutenant Colonel Eileen Hall and Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper discuss what security means from an Indigenous Australian perspective, and how cultural knowledge and cultural safety can directly impact domestic and regional security.

Lieutenant Colonel Eileen Hall is the Australian Army's first Command Cultural Advisor to the Regional Force Surveillance Group.

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is an Associate Professor and Academic Convenor at the ANU National Security College.

Show notes:

• National Intelligence Community and National Security College Scholarship for Women: find out more
• Astronomy, Sky Country, Karlie Noon, Krystal De Napoli, Margo Neale, April 2022
• The Uluru Statement from the Heart

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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What are Australia’s strategic interests in Antarctica? What role does the continent play in climate science? And what does Australia stand to gain from investment in the region?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr James Mortensen and Isabelle Bond, authors of recent NSC Policy Options Paper Cold logic: getting intelligent about Antarctica, join William Leben to discuss the geopolitics of Antarctica.  

James Mortensen is a Lecturer at the ANU National Security College. 

Isabelle Bond is a Research Assistant at the ANU National Security College. 

William Leben is a Senior Research Officer at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• ANU National Security College, Policy Options Paper: Cold logic: getting intelligent about Antarctica 
• Australian Antarctic Strategy & 20 Year Action Plan 
• Antarctic Treaty System 
• News article based on study published in Nature: Antarctic ice melt could disrupt the world’s oceans: study 
• Center for Strategic & International Studies reporting: Frozen Frontiers: China’s Great Power Ambitions in the Polar Regions 
• March 2022 ice shelves collapse 
• UN report: no credible pathway to limit warming to 1.5 °C 

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While social media has many benefits, there are a growing number of users – both human and machine – spreading harmful disinformation and misinformation on these networks. 

What is the difference between disinformation and misinformation? How do different actors – both state and non-state – affect society and geopolitics using social media? And what steps can be taken to overcome these challenges?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Associate Professor Darren Linvill from Clemson University and Associate Professor Will Grant from ANU, join David Andrews in conversation to discuss the state of disinformation and misinformation on social media.

Darren Linvill is an Associate Professor and Co-director of the Clemson University Media Forensics Hub. He studies state-affiliated social media information operations.

Will J Grant is Associate Professor at The Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science at ANU, where he researches the interaction of science and politics. He podcasts on science at The Wholesome Show.

David Andrews is the acting Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College.

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• Darren Linvill’s recent article for Irregular Warfare Initiative covers some of the themes discussed in today’s episode: Custer’s last tweet: avoiding a digital little bighorn in the fight for hearts and minds. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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What is the Women, Peace and Security framework and how did it come about? What was this agenda designed to do, and has it achieved the original ambition?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor Jacqui True from Monash University, and Lisa Sharland from the Stimson Centre, join Gai Brodtmann in conversation to unpack the Women Peace and Security agenda 23 years on from its creation.

Jacqui True is a Professor of international relations and Director of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for The Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Lisa Sharland is a Senior Fellow and Director of the Protecting Civilians & Human Security Program at the Stimson Centre in Washington DC.

Gai Brodtmann is a Distinguished Advisor to the ANU National Security College, having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Show notes: 

• National Intelligence Community and National Security College Scholarship for Women: find out more 
• The Australian WPS Coalition: The Women, Peace and Security Agenda 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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How will Canada engage with partners in the Indo-Pacific? What does its new Indo-Pacific Strategy outline for the years ahead? And how does this document shed light on the nation’s strategic outlook?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Jonathan Berkshire Miller and Paul Chamberlain join David Andrews in conversation to examine Canada’s recent Indo-Pacific Strategy, its interests in the region and what it aims to achieve.

Jonathan Berkshire Miller is Senior Fellow and Director of the Foreign Affairs, National Security and Defence Program at the Ottawa-based Macdonald Laurier Institute. He also holds concurrent roles as Senior Fellow at the Tokyo-based Japan Institute of International Affairs, and the Asian Forum Japan.

Paul Chamberlain is a PhD candidate at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre at The Australian National University. His research is on the role of navies in statecraft in the Indo-Pacific. 

David Andrews is the acting Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College.   

Show notes: 

• Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Technological innovation is now one of the most consequential realms of geopolitical contestation. And in the era of big tech, the private sector has assumed power that once resided with governments. In response, we’ve seen a reassertion of industry policy, with governments trying to re-establish control.

What happens to Australia’s national security when private companies, such as TikTok, are in the geopolitical driver’s seat? And how can policymakers keep up with this ever-changing industry?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Bec Shrimpton from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, joins Katherine Mansted in conversation to explore the rapidly changing landscape of big tech.

Bec Shrimpton is a Director at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, responsible for convening The Sydney Dialogue. 

Katherine Mansted is a Senior Fellow at the ANU National Security College, and the Director of Cyber Intelligence and Public Policy at CyberCX. 

Show notes: 

• National Intelligence Community and National Security College Scholarship for Women: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) population is under-represented in the national security community.  

In the latest National Security Podcast mini-series, Olivia Shen and Meg Tapia explore this gap — its causes, effects and potential solutions — and analyse the role of CALD in promoting strategic advantage.

Coinciding with Harmony Week, in the first episode of the mini-series, Carl Chang from the Office of National Intelligence joins Olivia and Meg. They unpack what CALD is and its value in a security context, sharing stories of how they each ended up in the national security community.

Carl Chang is co-leader of the Mission Management Division at the Office of National Intelligence (ONI) and is ONI's Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Champion.

Olivia Shen is a Director in the Executive and Professional Development team at the ANU National Security College.

Meg Tapia is Principal Director of Defence and National Security at Accenture Australia.

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Australia’s most recent Population Statement details the early impacts of the COVID‑19 pandemic and projects where the nation’s population is heading over the next decade.

How can this information be used to inform policy and decision-making in pursuit of a secure Australian future?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Liz Allen, demographer and Senior Lecturer at the ANU Center for Social Research and Methods, joins Dr Will Stoltz to discuss the state of Australia's population and what needs to be done to prepare for an increasingly complex strategic environment.

Dr Liz Allen is a demographer and Senior Lecturer at the ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods.

Dr William A Stoltz is the former Policy Director at the ANU National Security College.

Show notes: 

• 2022 Population Statement, Centre for Population 
• 2021 Intergenerational Report, Department of the Treasury 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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The Alliance with the United States is historically one of the most important aspects of Australia’s strategic policy — including in relation to Australia’s response to the changing strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific. 

Recent qualitative research on Australian public opinion on the US Alliance, conducted by the United States Studies Centre, sheds new light on how the relationship is viewed, and what future cooperation could look like.    

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor Rory Medcalf is joined by Professor Caitlin Byrne and Professor Stephan Frühling, two authors of the recently published report, 'An incomplete project': Australians' views of the US alliance, to discuss their findings.  

Caitlin Byrne is a Professor and Pro Vice Chancellor (Business) at Griffith University. 

Stephan Frühling is a Professor at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre at The Australian National University. 

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• ‘An incomplete project': Australians' views of the US Alliance, research by the United States Studies Centre 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, the Hon Clare O’Neil, Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, joins Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation. They discuss Australia’s current and future geopolitical environment, national resilience and maintaining integrity in Australia’s democracy. 

The conversation frames some significant developments in Australian government policy on foreign interference and cyber security. The Minister also shares insights on the new role of the Department of Home Affairs in national preparedness for future international conflicts. 

The Hon Clare O’Neil MP is the Federal Member for Hotham and the Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Cyber Security.  

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.  

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• ‘Foreign interference in Australia: an address by Home Affairs Minister the Hon Clare O’Neil MP’,  YouTube: https://bit.ly/3SERC9h 
• ‘Two Futures: Australia at a Critical Moment’, Clare O'Neil and Tim Watts, Text Publishing: https://bit.ly/3J10VNj 
• ‘Home Affairs and the long view’, National Press Club Address by Clare O’Neil: https://bit.ly/3ZwCsFh 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How has civilian life been impacted by the war? What more can be done to end the conflict? Will President Zelenskyy’s 10-point peace plan lead to a treaty?

24 February 2023 marks one year since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Sonia Mycak and Dr Anton Moiseienko join David Andrews to reflect on the last 12 months and discuss how the war might end.

Dr Sonia Mycak is a Research Fellow at the ANU Centre for European Studies. She is a regular commentator on Russia’s war against Ukraine, both in Australia and abroad. 

Dr Anton Moiseienko is a Lecturer at the ANU College of Law. His work focuses on transnational crime, economic crime and cybercrime, as well as legal and policy aspects of targeted sanctions.

David Andrews is the Policy Manager at the ANU National Security College.

Show notes: 

ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Why should policy practitioners and law makers focus their attention on space? What does space security look like from a gendered perspective? Is commercialisation disrupting the way that space is used for warfare? And why is space diplomacy important for Australia – regionally and internationally? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Cassandra Steer joins Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper to discuss the security dimensions of space and the consequences of it being a dual-use environment.

Dr Cassandra Steer is the Deputy Director – Mission Specialist with the ANU Institute of Space (InSpace). 

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is Associate Professor and Academic Convenor at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more 
• ANU National Security College Policy Options Paper: Australia as a Space Power: Combining Civil, Defence and Diplomatic Efforts 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Despite what you’d infer from the news articles, nuclear-powered submarines form just one part of the AUKUS Agreement. There is a whole other portion of the pact focused on other technological capabilities.

What is AUKUS pillar two? What kind of projects are underway under the auspices of this pillar? Are current export control regimes of AUKUS nations fit for purpose? And is expanding pillar two to bring in other countries a realistic goal? 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Miah Hammond-Errey and Ashley Townshend join David Andrews to discuss pillar two of the AUKUS partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States. 

Dr Miah Hammond-Errey is the Director of the Emerging Technology Program at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney. 

Ashley Townshend is Senior Fellow for Indo-Pacific Security at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the United States Studies Centre. 

David Andrews is Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes: 

• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more
• Recent polling by the United States Studies Center: US Midterms 2022: the stakes for Australia and the alliance 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Sweden’s Ambassador to Australia His Excellency Mr Pontus Melander and Latvia’s Ambassador to Australia His Excellency Mr Marģers Krams join Dr Will Stoltz in conversation.

They discuss how their countries approach building national resilience in response to a range of complex conventional and hybrid threats. 

His Excellency Mr Pontus Melander is the Ambassador of Sweden to Australia

His Excellency Mr Marģers Krams is the Ambassador of Latvia to Australia

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security College

Show notes:

ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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How can fiction influence national security policy and its development? What is the role of fiction in future scenario planning? How does reading fiction assist with developing empathy, and why is this important to the national security community?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Danielle Ireland-Piper, Chris Uhlmann and John Birmingham join Dayle Stanley in conversation to discuss the role of fiction in national security and policy making.

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is Associate Professor at the ANU National Security College and an Honorary Adjunct Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at Bond University.

Chris Uhlmann is an author and former journalist and broadcaster who was political editor for both the ABC and Nine News.  

John Birmingham is a former Defence researcher turned author and journalist. His work spans across genres including science fiction, alternative history and non-fiction.

Dayle Stanley is the Director of Strategy and Engagement at the Futures Hub at the ANU National Security College. 

Show notes:

• Blog post: Fiction and national security by Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper 
• ANU National Security College academic programs: find out more

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In the final National Security Podcast episode of the year, some of the team from the ANU National Security College take stock of Australia’s security landscape in 2022. Dayle Stanley, Elise Stephenson, Rory Medcalf and Will Stoltz also discuss what they’ll be keeping an eye on in 2023, and the years to come.

Dayle Stanley is the Director of Strategy & Engagement at the ANU National Security College Futures Hub.

Dr Elise Stephenson is a Fellow at the ANU National Security College and the incoming Deputy Director at the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security College.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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Under the AUKUS agreement, Australia will be the first non-nuclear state to acquire nuclear propulsion technology. What impact could this have on the nation’s nuclear security standards? And how could it affect Australia’s standing as a non-proliferation player?

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Scott Roecker and Jessica Bufford from the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) join Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation.

They discuss global nuclear non-proliferation and arms control efforts, the increasingly challenging strategic environment this work is carried out within, and the current outlook for nuclear disarmament.

Scott Roecker is the Vice President for NTI’s Nuclear Materials Security Program. He previously served as the Director of the Office of Nuclear Material Removal at the National Nuclear Security Administration in the United States. 

Jessica Bufford is a Program Officer for NTI’s Nuclear Material Security team. She previously worked in the Division of Nuclear Security at the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of the ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, the Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, the United Kingdom's Minister of State for the Indo-Pacific, joins Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation.

How will the United Kingdom’s Integrated Review refresh affect Britain’s Indo-Pacific policy? What does AUKUS mean for the United Kingdom? And what’s the future of Australia-UK cooperation? In this episode of the National Security Podcast, the Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP — who was recently appointed as Britain’s first Minister of State for the Indo-Pacific — joins Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation. They discuss the United Kingdom’s Integrated Review refresh and the country's subsequent tilt towards the Indo-Pacific, AUKUS, and Australia-UK relations.

The Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP is the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for the Indo-Pacific. She has previously served as Secretary of State for International Trade and International Development.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, eminent Russian foreign policy scholar Professor Akihiro Iwashita joins Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation.

How does the history of conflict between Japan and Russia affect relations today? How has the Russian invasion of Ukraine impacted their relationship? And what strategic challenges does the China-Russia relationship present for Japan and the Indo-Pacific? In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor Akihiro Iwashita – an expert in Russian foreign policy towards China and Japan – joins Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation. They discuss Japan’s relationship with China and Russia and broader strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Akihiro Iwashita is a Professor at the Slavic-Eurasian Research Center at Hokkaido University.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor the Hon Gareth Evans, former Australian Foreign Minister and former Chancellor of The Australian National University, joins Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss repositioning Australia in a new geopolitical environment.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor the Hon Gareth Evans – a longstanding and influential voice in Australian foreign and public policy – joins Professor Rory Medcalf in conversation. They discuss navigating the Australia-China and Australia-US relationships in an era of strategic competition, strengthening relations with Australia’s Indo-Pacific neighbours, the country’s credibility as a good international citizen, and the importance of diplomacy.

The Hon Gareth Evans AC KC FASSA FAIIA is a Distinguished Honorary Professor at The Australian National University (ANU), where he was Chancellor from 2010–19. He was a Cabinet Minister in the Hawke and Keating Labor Governments from 1983–96, in the posts of Attorney General, Minister for Resources and Energy, Minister for Transport and Communications and – from 1988–96 – Foreign Minister.

Professor Rory Medcalf AM is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than three decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, journalism and academia.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, we bring you the final instalment of the Women in National Security mini-series, produced in collaboration with Accenture.

To celebrate the final episode of the Women in National Security mini-series, the ANU National Security College hosted a networking event and live podcast recording with more than 250 women at the National Gallery of Australia. Our hosts Gai Brodtmann, National Security College Futures Council member, and Meg Tapia, Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture, were joined by Deputy Director-General at the Office of National Intelligence Nina Davidson, Deputy-Director General of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service Catherine Burn, and Head of the Australian Cyber Security Centre Abigail Bradshaw. The panel answer audience questions, addressing issues of gender equality, leadership, and authenticity. Drawing on live opinion polling results at the event, Gai and Meg discuss personal heroes and the use of gender targets, among other topics.

Nina Davidson is Deputy Director-General Intelligence at the Office of National Intelligence (ONI).

Catherine Burn was appointed as the Australian Secret Intelligence Service's Deputy-Director General Capability & Corporate Management in April 2018.

Abigail Bradshaw CSC is the Head of the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) and Deputy Director-General of the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD).

Gai Brodtmann is a member of the ANU National Security College's Futures Council having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence, and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Meg Tapia has 16 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. She served as a diplomat in Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and Vanuatu. Currently, Meg is Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture.

All episodes of the Women in National Security mini-series are available here.

The Dr Margot McCarthy Scholarship for women in national security will be offered for the first time in 2023. This scholarship will provide women with financial aid in order to complete a Master of National Security Policy at The Australian National University. For more information, reach out to [email protected].

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode, Lisa Curtis — Senior Fellow at the Center for a New American Security — joins Will Stoltz and David Andrews from the ANU National Security College to discuss the Biden Administration’s new National Security Strategy.

A new national security strategy from Australia’s most important ally deserves close attention. What is a national security strategy in the American context? What are the key areas of continuity and change between this strategy and the document produced by the Trump Administration? How does the new strategy approach non-traditional security challenges such as climate change and COVID-19? In this episode, Lisa Curtis — Senior Fellow and Director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security — joins Will Stoltz and David Andrews from the ANU National Security College to discuss the Biden Administration’s National Security Strategy.

Lisa Curtis is a Senior Fellow and Director of the Indo-Pacific Security Program at the Center for a New American Security. She is a foreign policy and national security expert with over 20 years of service in the US government.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security College.

David Andrews is the Senior Policy Advisor at the ANU National Security College.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Australia’s Minister for Cyber Security Clare O’Neil MP and the former head of Britain’s National Cyber Security Centre Ciaran Martin join Katherine Mansted in conversation.

The recent data breaches at Optus and Medibank remind us how valuable, yet vulnerable, Australians’ personal data is. The hacks — which are two of the worst in the country’s history — highlight the need for a rethink of the nation’s approach to cyber security. In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Australia’s Minster for Cyber Security the Hon Clare O'Neil MP and former head of the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre Professor Ciaran Martin join Katherine Mansted in conversation. This episode was recorded at an event hosted by ANU National Security College, in partnership with CyberCX, on 9 November 2022.

The Hon Clare O’Neil MP is Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Cyber Security in the Australian Government. She Labor member for the federal seat of Hotham in Victoria.

Professor Ciaran Martin is the former Chief Executive of the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre and is a Professor of Practice in the Management of Public Organisations at the University of Oxford.

Katherine Mansted is a Senior Fellow in the Practice of National Security at ANU National Security College. She is also the Director of Cyber Intelligence at CyberCX.

Major General Duncan Lewis AO DSC CSC (Retd) is a Professor in the Practice of National Security at ANU National Security College. He concluded his 47-year career in the Australian Government as Director-General of the Australian Secret Intelligence Organisation.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, outgoing Director-General of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service, Major General Paul Symon AO (Retd), joins Professor Rory Medcalf AM to reflect on his long career in the national security community.

The head of the Australian intelligence agency tasked with collecting human intelligence from around the world is preparing to retire. In a rare appearance, Major General Paul Symon AO (Retd) joins Professor Rory Medcalf AM in conversation. They discuss the increasing need for transparency from intelligence agencies, the evolving mission and capability needs of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS), Australia’s complex strategic circumstances, and whether the nation is adequately prepared in the event of a conflict.

Major General Paul Symon AO (Retd) is the Director-General of ASIS. Before leading the organisation, he had a highly successful military career, spanning 35 years and culminating in the rank of Major General.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than two decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, and journalism.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, we bring you the ninth instalment of the Women in National Security mini-series, produced in collaboration with Accenture.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, hosts Gai Brodtmann, National Security College Futures Council member, and Meg Tapia, Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture, are joined by Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper, Associate Professor at ANU National Security College and Honorary Adjunct Associate Professor at Bond University. They explore whether legislation is keeping up with contemporary human rights issues arising from the exploration of space. Danielle also provides a legal perspective on a range of national security issues, including the delicate balance between national security secrecy and the need for transparency.

Dr Danielle Ireland-Piper is Associate Professor at ANU National Security College. Her teaching and research expertise includes constitutional, comparative, and international law, as well as the intersection between these areas of law and matters of national security law and policy.

Gai Brodtmann is a member of the ANU National Security College (NSC)'s Futures Council having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Meg Tapia has 16 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. She served as a diplomat in Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and Vanuatu. Currently, Meg is Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture.

All episodes of the Women in National Security mini-series are available here.

For full show notes, visit policyforum.net. We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Senior Fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute in Delhi Dr C Raja Mohan joins Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss India’s strategic direction.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr C Raja Mohan, a longstanding and highly-repsected analyst, joins Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss India’s strategic direction. They discuss the future of India, its evolving relationship with the United States, China, Russia and Australia, and a South-Asian view of AUKUS. Dr Mohan’s visit to Australia has been made possible by the Asia Society Australia.

Dr C Raja Mohan is a Senior Fellow with the Asia Society Policy Institute in Delhi. He is a Visiting Research Professor at the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS), National University of Singapore.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than two decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, and journalism.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Peter Khalil MP, Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, joins Rory Medcalf in conversation. 

What are the big strategic issues that will shape Australia’s future? How should Australia respond to more frequent challenges from authoritarian regimes? And what role should politics play in Australian national security policy-making? In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Head of ANU National Security College Professor Rory Medcalf is joined by Peter Khalil MP, a prominent voice on national security in the new parliament. They discuss his new role as Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, his personal journey into politics and the national security community, and the growing complexity of Australia’s security landscape.

Peter Khalil MP is Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security and Australian Co-Chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. He is the Labor member of parliament for the federal seat of Wills.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than two decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, and journalism.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, we bring you the eighth instalment of the Women in National Security mini-series, produced in collaboration with Accenture.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, hosts Gai Brodtmann, National Security College Futures Council member, and Meg Tapia, Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture, are joined by Lindy Cameron, Chief Executive Officer of the UK National Cyber Security Centre. As the first international guest on the WiNS mini-series, Lindy explains the need for the United Kingdom and Australia to share their experiences in dealing with cyber threats, and increase both nations’ capabilities. Lindy discusses her approach to partnering across government and industry, in an effort to enable citizens to participate confidently in the online world.

Lindy Cameron is Chief Executive Officer of the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre. She commenced in the role in 2020, following more than two decades of national security policy and crisis management experience.

Gai Brodtmann is a member of ANU National Security College's Futures Council having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Meg Tapia has 16 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. She served as a diplomat in Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and Vanuatu. Currently, Meg is Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture.

This episode was recorded before the Optus data breach of September 2022.

We’re giving away several free tickets to the WiNS Live event, taking place on the 10 November in Canberra! If you’re a woman who is new to — or interested in joining — the national security community, enter now.

All episodes of the Women in National Security mini-series are available here.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this special episode of the National Security Podcast, we kick off a mini-series exploring the AUKUS technology-sharing arrangement, a year on from its announcement. 

The AUKUS technology-sharing arrangement – between the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia – is set to, among other things, fundamentally change the nature of Australian sea power and introduce nuclear-powered submarines to the Royal Australian Navy. ANU National Security College has produced a podcast mini-series, a year on from the AUKUS announcement, exploring its background, implications, and the implementation challenges ahead – for Australia in particular. In the first episode of this series, recently retired Vice Admiral Michael Noonan – former Chief of the Royal Australian Navy – joins Professor Rory Medcalf. They discuss the strategic challenges that led to AUKUS, nuclear submarines, the role of sea power for Australia and more.

Vice Admiral Michael Noonan AO RAN (Retd) assumed command of the Royal Australian Navy in 2018 and retired in 2022.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than two decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, and journalism.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Director of the CSIRO National Artificial Intelligence Centre Stela Solar joins Olivia Shen and Dr Will Stoltz from ANU National Security College to discuss ethical artificial intelligence and the strategic implications of rising global competition in artificial intelligence development. 

Stela Solar – prominent Australian expert on artificial intelligence (AI) – joins Olivia Shen and Dr Will Stoltz from ANU National Security College to discuss the strategic implications of AI technology. From AI ‘data deserts’ to Chinese facial recognition technology, they reflect on the ethical questions raised by the global pursuit of the technology’s development. They discuss Australia’s position in the race to develop AI capabilities, the responsibilities of government in regulating the technology, and the opportunities AI presents for the future.

Olivia Shen is a Director in the Executive and Professional Development Program at ANU National Security College. With a decade of experience in national security and foreign policy roles in the Australian Government, in 2019 she was a Fulbright Scholar at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington where her research focused on the ethics of artificial intelligence in national security. 

Stela Solar is the Director of the CSIRO National Artificial Intelligence Centre and former Global Director of Artificial Intelligence Solution Sales and Strategy at Microsoft. She is well-versed in artificial intelligence technology and is helping to bridge the chasm between innovation and commercialisation to create new opportunities for Australia. 

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at ANU National Security College. He is responsible for mobilising the College’s research and resident expertise to influence and inform current public policy debates. 

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Nick Rasmussen, inaugural Executive Director of the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism, and Kristy Campion, Lecturer of Terrorism Studies at Charles Sturt University, join Will Stoltz to unpack they ways terrorism and violent extremism have evolved since the 9/11 attacks, and how Australia and the United States are combatting these threats.

More than two decades on from the devastating attacks of September 11, how has terrorism changed? And with the rise of right-wing extremism, is the current practice of counterterrorism still fit for purpose? Nick Rasmussen, former head of the United States National Counterterrorism Center, and Dr Kristy Campion, terrorism studies lecturer, reflect on the impacts of historical terrorist attacks such as 9/11 and the Bali Bombings, discuss the ongoing evolution of terrorism and violent extremism, and explore how Australia and the United States are finding new ways to combat these threats.

Nick Rasmussen is the inaugural Executive Director of the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT), and former Director of the United States National Counterterrorism Center.

Dr Kristy Campion is a Lecturer of Terrorism Studies with the Australian Graduate School of Policing and Security at Charles Sturt University.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at ANU National Security College.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, chair of the European Parliament’s China delegation Reinhard Bütikofer joins Professor Rory Medcalf to discuss how Europe, Germany, and Australia are approaching the China challenge.

In a fascinating conversation, Reinhard Bütikofer — a leading voice on Europe's national security stance — reflects on the China challenge. He outlines how European and German views of China are shifting, and lessons for the Indo-Pacific from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Bütikofer also describes the vital role Green Party voices have played in the shaping of German and European strategic policy.

Reinhard Bütikofer is one of the Co-Chairs of the European Green Party, and a Member of the European Parliament for the German Green Party (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen). He serves as the Chair of the European Parliament Delegation for Relations with China and sits on the Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than two decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, and journalism.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, we bring you the seventh instalment of the Women in National Security mini-series, produced in collaboration with Accenture.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, hosts Gai Brodtmann, National Security College Futures Council member, and Meg Tapia, Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture, are joined by Sophia Hamblin Wang, Chief Operating Officer for Mineral Carbonation International. Sophia provides a realistic and hopeful outlook for the state of Australia’s climate change issues, and shares how her upbringing in tropical Queensland and exposure to a range of natural disasters shaped her interest in carbon capture technology.

Sophia Hamblin Wang is a carbon technologist, circular economy expert, university lecturer and diversity advocate. She is the Chief Operating Officer of Mineral Carbonation International, a technology platform that transforms CO2 into building materials and other valuable industrial products.

Gai Brodtmann is a member of the ANU National Security College (NSC)’s Futures Council having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Meg Tapia has 16 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. She served as a diplomat in Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and Vanuatu. Currently, Meg is Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture.

Full show notes at policyforum.net. We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Huong Le Thu and Gatra Priyandita join Dr Will Stoltz to discuss how Southeast Asia’s technology and development needs intersect with geopolitics and great power competition in the region. 

How do nations in the region balance the conflict between immediate needs and those that are more long-term and strategic? Is regional leadership in South-East Asia changing? And if so, what is the role of ASEAN into the future? Principal Policy Fellow at the Perth USAsia Centre Dr Huong Le Thu and Gatra Priyandita from ANU Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs join ANU National Security College Policy Director Dr Will Stoltz to discuss how Southeast Asia’s technology and development needs are intersecting with geopolitics and great power competition in the region.

Gatra Priyandita is a PhD candidate at ANU Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs and an Analyst at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. He recently co-authored China Inc. and Indonesia’s Technology Future, a Policy Options Paper published by the ANU National Security College.

Dr Huong Le Thu is Principal Policy Fellow at the Perth USAsia Centre and Non-Resident Fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Southeast Asia Program. She speaks five languages and has published in four of them.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security College. He is responsible for mobilising the College’s research and resident expertise to influence and inform current public policy debates.

Find full show notes at policyforum.net. We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor Joanne Wallis and Adjunct Professor Ian Kemish AM join Nicola Rosenblum to discuss the future of Australian diplomacy in the Pacific.

It’s been a busy year for diplomacy in the Pacific, with visits to multiple countries by China’s Foreign Minster Wang Yi and Australia’s newly-minted Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Attention for the region heightened at the Pacific Islands Forum when the United States pledged to scale up its engagement in the region, including the establishment of new embassies. Given these recent events why has there been such intense diplomatic interest in the Pacific? Is the Pacific “family” metaphor useful when talking about and with the region? And what role does Australia have in strengthening regional unity? In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Professor of International Security at the University of Adelaide Joanne Wallis and former Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea Ian Kemish AM join Deputy Head of the ANU National Security College Nicola Rosenblum to discuss the future of diplomacy in the Pacific.

Joanne Wallis is Professor of International Security in the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Adelaide. She is the author or editor of seven books, including Constitution making during State building and Pacific Power? Australia’s Strategy in the Pacific Islands.

Ian Kemish AM is an Adjunct Research Professor in History at The University of Queensland and author of The Consul: An insider account from Australia's diplomatic frontline. He was formerly Australia’s High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Ambassador to Germany, Head of the Prime Minister’s International Division and DFAT’s Southeast Asia Division.

Nicola Rosenblum is Deputy Head of the National Security College, on secondment from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). She has served as Australia’s High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam, as well as other diplomatic postings to Australia’s High Commission in Pakistan and Australia’s mission to the United Nations in Vienna.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Mika Aaltola, Director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, joins Rory Medcalf to shine a light on the distinctly Finnish way of safeguarding a small democracy’s national security in an unforgiving strategic environment.

A major consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is the historic decision by Finland and Sweden to join NATO. But Finland is no stranger to countering military aggression from Moscow. In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Dr Mika Aaltola, Director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA), joins Professor Rory Medcalf, Head of the National Security College, who recently visited Helsinki in his capacity as a member of the FIIA advisory council, to shine a light on the distinctly Finnish way of safeguarding a small democracy’s national security in an unforgiving strategic environment.

Dr Mika Aaltola is the Director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs and has been a Visiting Fellow at Cambridge University, Le Centre de recherches internationals at Sciences Po, and Johns Hopkins University. His areas of expertise include the global role of the United States, dynamics of major power politics, democratic vulnerability, pandemic security, and Finnish foreign policy.

Professor Rory Medcalf is Head of ANU National Security College. His professional experience spans more than two decades across diplomacy, intelligence analysis, think tanks, and journalism.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, we bring you the sixth instalment of the Women in National Security mini-series, produced in collaboration with Accenture.

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, hosts Gai Brodtmann, National Security College Futures Council member, and Meg Tapia, Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture, are joined by Dr Elise Stephenson, ANU National Security College Fellow and Research Fellow at the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership. Drawing on recent data, Elise discusses the barriers for women entering and progressing within the national security domain, and outlines the systemic issues that stand in the way of gender equality.

Dr Elise Stephenson is an ANU National Security College Fellow and Research Fellow at the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership. Elise seeks to find critical junctures across industries and portfolios – all for the sake of research, practice, or policy interventions that can help to ensure equality in various aspects of international affairs.

Gai Brodtmann is a member of the ANU National Security College (NSC)'s Futures Council having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Meg Tapia has 16 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. She served as a diplomat in Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and Vanuatu. Currently, Meg is Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture.

We’re giving away several free tickets to the WiNS Live event, taking place on the 10 November in Canberra! If you’re a woman who is new to — or interested in joining — the national security community, enter now: https://forms.office.com/r/U0fashVrLE

All episodes of the Women in National Security mini-series are available here.

Find full show notes at policyforum.net. We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Sir Roland Wilson Scholar and economist Helen Mitchell and Director of Research and Economics at the Australian Industry Group Jeffrey Wilson join National Security College Policy Director Will Stoltz to discuss how the global economy is reshaping international security.

It’s a turbulent time for the global economy, with food and fuel crises, straining global supply chains, bounding inflation, and — especially in Australia — acute workforce and population obstacles. To explore these trends, and how they’re affecting international security, Will Stolz is joined by Helen Mitchell and Jeffrey Wilson.

Helen Mitchell is a Sir Roland Wilson PhD Scholar at The Australian National University (ANU) Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis. She is also an economist and former diplomat.

Dr Jeffrey Wilson is the Director of Research and Economics at the Australian Industry Group.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at ANU National Security College.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Lisa Singh, CEO of the Australia India Institute, and Dr David Brewster, Senior Fellow at ANU National Security College, join Will Stoltz to discuss the challenges and opportunities for greater cooperation with India on international security issues.

India will play a pivotal role in shaping international security in the decades to come. There are challenges and opportunities for greater cooperation between India and other democratic states like Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. As the world adapts to the invasion of Ukraine and looks to potential conflicts that may arise elsewhere, we ask what practical steps Australia and other countries can do to ensure India fulfils its potential to secure and stabilise an uncertain world.

For more, see the College’s recent Policy Options Paper, 'New options for trilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific: Australia-India-United Kingdom'.  

Lisa Singh is CEO of the Australia India Institute and a former Senator for Tasmania.

Dr David Brewster is a Senior Fellow at the ANU National Security College.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security College.

We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, we bring you the fifth instalment of the Women in National Security mini-series, produced in collaboration with Accenture. 

In this episode of the National Security Podcast, hosts Gai Brodtmann, National Security College Futures Council member, and Meg Tapia, Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture, are joined by Julie-Ann Guivarra, Group Manager of the Strategic Policy Group in the National Indigenous Australians Agency. Julie-Ann talks us through her experience in rising to the challenges and expectations that come with being the first in many things, and shares with us her personal views on the recent changes to Indigenous policy.

Julie-Ann Guivarra is the Group Manager of the Strategic Policy Group in the National Indigenous Australians Agency. Julie-Ann was previously with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade where she served most recently as Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality and prior to this as Australia’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, Andorra, and Equatorial Guinea.

Gai Brodtmann is a member of the National Security College Futures Council having previously served as a diplomat, defence consultant, Member of Parliament, Shadow Assistant Minister for Cyber Security and Defence and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Defence.

Meg Tapia has 16 years of experience in national security and foreign policy. She served as a diplomat in Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, and Vanuatu. Currently, Meg is Principal Director for Defence and National Security at Accenture.

All episodes of the Women in National Security mini-series are available here.

Find full show notes at policyforum.net. We’d love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to [email protected]. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. The National Security Podcast is available on Acast, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. 

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In this episode of the National Security Podcast, Kate Clayton and Dom Dwyer join Will Stoltz to discuss how young Australians are seeking to influence policymakers and what can be expected of the next generation of leaders.

Young Australians in International Affairs (YAIA) and the Youth National Security Strategy (YNSS) are two organisations seeking to equip the next generation of security and foreign affairs decision-makers to lead in an uncertain world. Through distinctly different approaches they are also supporting amplifying the perspectives and concerns of young Australians in the policy discourses. Kate Clayton from Young Australians in International Affairs and Dom Dwyer from the Youth National Security Strategy join Will Stoltz to discuss how young Australians are seeking to influence policymakers and what can be expected of the next generation of leaders.

Kate Clayton is a Research Officer at La Trobe Asia and Chief Operations Officer at Young Australians in International Affairs. Her research looks at climate change, security, and geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific region.

Dom Dwyer is Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Youth National Security Strategy. He is currently completing honours research at The Australian National University.

Dr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security College.

Show notes | The following were mentioned during this episode: