Foreign Interference Policy

Foreign interference occurs when activities are carried out by, or on behalf of a foreign actor, which are coercive, covert, deceptive or corrupting and are contrary to Australia’s sovereignty, values and national interest.

The Cairnmillar Institute takes a proactive approach to minimize the threat of foreign interference, which may safeguard the Institute’s reputation, protect academic freedom, demonstrate its understanding of national security interests; maintain the confidence and support of partner organisations; and ensure the Institute can maximise the benefits of education and research endeavours.

All academic staff will be required to complete Countering Foreign Interference training. The training links will also be provided at Training. A record of successful completion of the training will be kept in the staff members staff records.

Through training, staff will become aware of potential risks of foreign interference in Institute activities, assess and minimise the risk and impact of foreign interference in Institute activities, and required pathways for reporting potential or suspected foreign interference. The Countering Foreign Interference frameworks:

• Describes the risks associated with foreign interference, particularly within the higher education sector.
• Identifies steps to assess and mitigate the risks of foreign interference in relation to international collaborations.
• Outlines pathways for reporting of perceived or potential foreign interference; and
• Provides guidance on ensuring cybersecurity to protect against potential foreign interference.

All faculty and Research Centres are responsible for undertaking an assessment on whether any proposal to enter into a foreign arrangement, by discussing potential areas of concern with the Dean.

All faculty are responsible for undertaking risk mitigation and due diligence assessments on any overseas travel, international visits to the Institute, visiting scholar appointments, collaborations, recruitment (including HDR students), secondments, exchanges, partnerships and scholarships where a foreign interference risk may apply.

The Chief Executive Officer (or designated appointee) shall be responsible for ensuring all Institute staff have completed training on Countering Foreign Interference, including additional future training if necessary. All Institute staff shall ensure that they maintain compliance with this policy.