The National Security Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 UniversityJohn Blaxland is a Professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies at the ANU Strategic and Defence Studies CentreDr Will Stoltz is Expert Associate at the ANU National Security College and Senior Manager at CyberCXShow notes: Revealing Secrets: An unofficial history of Australian Signals intelligence & the advent of cyberANU 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 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 MaudeBook: Australia's Security in China's Shadow by Euan GrahamANU 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 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.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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 moreAstronomy, Sky Country, Karlie Noon, Krystal De Napoli, Margo Neale, April 2022The Uluru Statement from the HeartWe’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 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  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 AustraliaHis Excellency Mr Marģers Krams is the Ambassador of Latvia to AustraliaDr William A Stoltz is the Policy Director at the ANU National Security CollegeShow notes:ANU National Security College academic programs: find out moreWe’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 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 moreWe’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 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.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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

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

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