National security and foreign relations

Australian universities face a real risk of data theft, espionage and other interference sponsored by foreign entities. Universities are actively preparing for those threats as they advance their core commitment to enhancing knowledge through education and research. IRU members are working with the Government to understand the nature and extent of the risk and propose effective ways to ensure universities remain well-functioning creators and sharers of knowledge.

International engagement, collaboration and partnerships are, however, an essential and intrinsic part of university operations and the global exchange of ideas. The IRU calls on the Government to adopt a holistic approach to national security and foreign relations issues and to work with universities to identify and fix any risks.

This page collates IRU media releases, submissions and other updates relating to national security and foreign relations.

IRU analysis

  • Are Australian universities over-reliant on China? (IRU briefing note)

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Parliamentary inquiries – IRU submissions

  • Inquiry into Australia’s Foreign Relations (State and Territory Arrangements) Bill 2020 (IRU submission)

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  • Inquiry into national security risks affecting the Australian higher education and research sector (IRU submission)

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  • Review of the Security Legislation Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2020 (IRU submission)

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  • Commonwealth Integrity Commission (Bill) consultation (IRU submission)

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IRU media releases (national security and related issues)

IRU media releases (national security and related issues)