New Laws Could Block ASIO From Investigating Journalists: Spy Chief

Some spies pretend to be journalists themselves, while others cultivate legitimate journalists in the hope they will gain access to classified information.

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Director General Mike Burgess poses for a portrait ahead of his annual threat assessment speech at ASIO headquarters in Canberra, Australia on Feb. 28, 2024. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) is warning against tightening secrecy laws around journalists saying they could prevent domestic security from investigating the media—a target of foreign spies.

Independent National Security Legislation Monitor Jake Blight is reviewing the effectiveness and proportionality of secrecy laws and offences covering the disclosure of information, which is due to lapse this year.