What is foreign interference?

Foreign interference (FI) occurs when activities are carried out by, or on behalf of, a foreign actor, that are coercive, clandestine, deceptive or corrupting, and are contrary to Australia's sovereignty, values and national interests. In the university context, this could refer to activities which seek to compromise teaching, research and engagement, including:

• Intellectual property theft
• Covert influence on research direction or curriculums
• Censorship, or attacks on academic freedom
• Pressure on staff or students to act in the interests of foreign governments
• Cyberattacks or breaches of sensitive data
• Financial or other incentives that create conflicts of interest

This contrasts with 'foreign influence' which, when conducted in an open, lawful and transparent manner, is a normal aspect of international relations and diplomacy. This is where governments and other foreign entities may seek to influence deliberations on issues and policies of importance to them, providing for robust decision making and diverse opinions to be heard. An example of this would be diplomats advocating for trade or tourism through bilateral agreements that serve both countries' interests, or ACU representatives travelling to a foreign country to develop future partnerships and promote collaboration.

ACU's response

ACU has adopted the University Foreign Interference Taskforce (UFIT) Guidelines to strengthen institutional protections against FI, ensuring compliance with government regulations and best practices. These guidelines are aimed at managing risks and deepening resilience against FI, while preserving the openness and collaboration that's crucial to the success of Australia's world-class university system.

Additionally, ACU has established a Foreign Interference & Transparency Committee (FITC), tasked with managing specific FI matters, and developing a university-wide strategy to counter FI. The committee includes representatives from all relevant areas of the University, ensuring a wide range of experience and expertise.

Lastly, ACU has developed an online FI Training Module, where you can learn about FI and related issues, including foreign arrangements, export controls, autonomous sanctions and foreign bribery. The module is intended to give staff an understanding of the risks, your responsibilities, and where to go for more information. The module takes about 20 minutes to complete, and forms part of the mandatory compliance training for all ongoing academic staff, and targeted professional staff. For more information, or to access the module, go to the ACU Staff Learning Hub.

What can you do?

The knowledge, skills and access of ACU staff and students are valuable assets, and it's important to recognise the potential interest that foreign actors might have in ACU and its work. Being aware of the potential risks and understanding the University's value is crucial to protecting ACU from FI.

Specifically, the ACU community is being asked to:

• Stay informed - familiarise yourself with FI and related issues, so that you can be alert to the potential risks and red flags.
• Be vigilant - be cautious of unsolicited approaches from foreign or suspicious entities, and avoid sharing sensitive information in unsecured environments.
• Declare conflicts - report potential conflicts of interest, foreign arrangements, or offers of financial support.
• Practice due diligence - conduct thorough risk and compliance checks before engaging with international partners.
• Protect data - protect devices and data by implementing strong physical, digital and cybersecurity measures, and utilising approved storage solutions.
• Be safe - take extra precautions when travelling internationally for work.
• Report concerns - report all concerns relating to actual or suspected foreign interference.

Report concerns

ACU takes a 'no wrong doors' approach to FI, meaning that any staff member or student, at any level, should feel free to raise FI related questions or concerns with any part of the organisation, and they will be helped or referred appropriately, rather than turned away. This is intended to simplify the reporting process, foster a culture of safety and security, and facilitate early intervention. Alternatively, you can report foreign interference directly to the Australian Government.

ACU Research Stewardship Unit

If you are seeking specific guidance on FI matters, or wish to report a concern, you can contact the Research Stewardship Unit:

Email: foreign.interference@acu.edu.au

National Security Hotline

Concerns relating to terrorism or foreign interference can be reported to the Australian Government's National Security Hotline, by phone, text or email.

Visit the National Security Hotline website

Notable Incidents, Threats or Reportable Observations (NITRO) Portal

Unusual activity relating to espionage, sabotage or foreign interference can be reported to ASIO via its Notable Incidents, Threats or Reportable Observations (NITRO) Portal.

Visit the NITRO portal

Resources

• ACU Declaration of Interest Policy
• ACU Foreign Interference Declaration Form
• Department of Education Guidelines to Counter Foreign Interference in the Australian University Sector (UFIT Guidelines)
• ASIO Protect Your Research, Collaborate with Care
• ASIO Managing the Espionage & Foreign Interference Threat While Travelling Overseas
• ASIO Secure Your Success