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.