05 Aug 2024 | 08:28 AM UTC
Australia: Terrorism threat level for the country raised to "probable" Aug. 5
Authorities raise terrorism threat level in Australia as of Aug. 5. Heightened security likely; transport disruptions possible.
Australian authorities have raised the nation's terror threat level to 'probable' (third-highest level on a five-tier scale) from the second-lowest level of 'possible,' effective Aug. 5. The 'probable' level is defined as one in which the likelihood of a terror attack or credible attack plan in the next 12 months is over 50 percent. Officials state that the move is due to an alleged increase in extremist views in the country. However, officials maintain there is no imminent threat of an attack.
Authorities may implement increased security measures around sensitive sites and potential targets, including government offices, police headquarters, airports, and transport hubs, especially during periods of symbolic significance such as national holidays and large rallies. Security personnel will be especially vigilant, which could result in an increase in security alerts or intensive response to security incidents in the near term, prompting short-notice business and transport disruptions in affected areas.
Anticipate possible disruption from heightened security measures and increased scrutiny from security services. Plan accordingly for short-term security-related disruptions, which could occur with little-to-no warning. If approached by security services personnel, remain calm and nonconfrontational and comply with their instructions. Report any suspicious behavior or objects to authorities.
Australia has dealt with several incidents of violence in recent months, including stabbing attacks in a shopping center and Assyrian church in Sydney, New South Wales State, this April. While the perpetrator of the shopping center attack has no known motive, officials consider the church attack an act of terrorism motivated by religious extremism. Security incidents have also occurred during disruptive protests, including clashes between opposing groups during pro-Palestine protests on campuses and breach of the parliamentary security cordon in Canberra for a related demonstration, as well as coal port disruptions caused by climate activists. Heightened security vigilance is likely to continue amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the upcoming Australian federal election scheduled to occur before late September 2025.
