Foreign Interference

Understanding Foreign Interference

Foreign interference occurs when activities are carried out by, or on behalf of, a foreign actor, that are coercive, clandestine, deceptive or corrupting, and contrary to Australia's sovereignty, values and national interests.

Foreign interference can take many forms, such as:

  • surveillance of individuals;
  • threats and intimidation to silence criticism or influence behaviour;
  • attempts to control academic content or discourse and/or student activities (on campus or online); and
  • the theft of technology or intellectual property.

Upholding academic freedom and freedom of speech is foundational to Notre Dame’s mission and culture. We are committed to providing a safe environment where our staff and students can work and study free from interference by foreign governments or their agents.

To learn more about the national context and risks, review the Australian Government's publication on Countering Foreign Interference in Australia.

Recognising Foreign Interference

The following behaviours may indicate foreign interference and are not tolerated at the University:

  • harassment, intimidation or threats;
  • inappropriate sharing of personal information (e.g. ‘doxxing’);
  • monitoring or reporting on students or staff to foreign authorities;
  • attempts to influence teaching, research or campus activities to align with foreign government interests;
  • unauthorised access to University systems, accounts or research;
  • pressure to share information or take actions against your will; or
  • disinformation campaigns targeting individuals or groups.

Reporting concerns or incidents

If you are concerned about foreign interference, you are encouraged to seek advice or make a report.

Discuss your concern

You can contact the University for guidance or to discuss a concern by emailing res.integrity@nd.edu.au.

Report a concern or incident

You can report suspected foreign interference to the University by emailing foreign.interference@nd.edu.au.

You can choose to remain anonymous, and you will not be penalised for making a report in good faith.

Emergency or immediate safety concerns

If you feel unsafe or threatened call Campus Security

Broadway: 0403 458 011
Darlinghurst: 0406 318 213
Fremantle: 0438 923 955
Broome: 0475 985 197

In an emergency, call 000

External reporting options

You can also report concerns to the Australian Government:

Resources

Guidelines to Countering Foreign Interference in the Australian University Sector
Enhance your understanding and resilience against foreign interference risks in the university sector.
Access the refreshed Guideline.

Foreign Arrangements Scheme (FAS)
Designed to protect the interests of our university when collaborating with foreign entities. FAS outlines the obligations and processes for foreign arrangements and provides assistance with compliance requirements.
Learn about Foreign Arrangements.

Conflict of Interest Policy
Our governance framework ensures the identification and disclosure of personal interests, as well as the management of potential conflicts of interest.
Learn more about the policy.

NITRO Portal
Business and research institutions can report Notifiable Incidents, Threats, or Reportable Observations through the NITRO portal.
Access the portal.

Further information