The national terrorism threat level was elevated to probable in 2024, and Burgess does not anticipate a decrease in this level anytime soon.

Burgess also highlighted a surge in attacks on the Jewish community since the outbreak of the war in Gaza, alongside the rise of self-radicalizing extremists.

Foreign intelligence units are actively targeting the AUKUS submarine project, aiming to gather defense information and potentially sabotage the initiative.

ASIO has identified at least three foreign nations plotting to harm individuals residing in Australia, with four countries coercing residents to leave due to threats against their families.

Australia's domestic intelligence agency ASIO has raised alarms about unprecedented national security threats, with its head, Mike Burgess, warning of increased risks from espionage, foreign interference, and potential sabotage over the next five years.

ASIO successfully intervened to thwart a plot by a foreign intelligence service that aimed to lure a human rights activist to a third country for a potentially lethal 'accident'.

Burgess described the current security landscape as one of strategic surprise and fragility, influenced by a rapidly changing environment.

In his 2025 Annual Threat Assessment, Burgess highlighted the relentless efforts of foreign actors seeking sensitive information about Australia's military capabilities, especially concerning the AUKUS military deal.

Concerns were raised about state-sponsored terrorism and the use of proxies by hostile nations, indicating that Australia is not immune to threats from countries such as Iran.

The threat of politically motivated violence is escalating, particularly from nationalist and racist violent extremists, increasing the likelihood of terrorist acts.

ASIO is particularly vigilant regarding espionage, with Defence personnel increasingly targeted both in person and online, including incidents involving gifts containing concealed surveillance devices.

Burgess specifically noted that nations like Russia and Iran could seek to attack Australia amid rising geopolitical tensions.