Australias-Counter-Terrorism-Strategy-2015

Australia’s Counter-Terrorism StrategyStrengthening Our Resilience2015i | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

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CONTENTSFOREWORD...................................................................................................................................... iiiEXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................................................................................................... vTERRORISM AND AUSTRALIA ........................................................................................................... 1RESILIENCE OF THE AUSTRALIAN COMMUNITY ............................................................................... 5AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY .............................................................................. 61. Challenging violent extremist ideologies ................................................................................ 72. Stopping people from becoming terrorists ........................................................................... 103. Shaping the global environment ........................................................................................... 124. Disrupting terrorist activity within Australia ......................................................................... 145. Effective response and recovery ........................................................................................... 17GOVERNANCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY ........................................................................................... 22ANNEX: ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................................................ 23ii | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

FOREWORDWe join together to release Australia’s Counter-Terrorism Strategy.Australians are facing the most significant ongoing threat from terrorism in our nation’s history.Reflecting this, in 2014 the National Terrorism Public Alert Level was, for the first time, raised toHigh: a terrorist attack is likely at any time.We are opposed to terrorism and violent extremism in all its manifestations, regardless of itsideological or political inspiration. Violent extremism has no place in Australia.This Strategy focusses on the major threat that we, and other nations, are currently facing. That is,the threat from violent extremism perpetrated or inspired by terrorist groups such as Islamic State ofIraq and the Levant (ISIL), al-Qa’ida (AQ) and others that claim to act in the name of Islam.This Strategy sets out the comprehensive counter-terrorism arrangements our nation has in place tomeet the terrorist threat. From community engagement to diplomacy, from law enforcement tointelligence, our agencies at all levels of government are doing everything they can to prevent and,should the need arise, respond effectively to terrorist attacks.The resilience and cohesion of the Australian community is our best defence against violentextremism and our greatest asset when responding to and recovering from a major terrorist attack.The community spirit shown during and following the Martin Place siege was testament to thisstrength and resilience.One of the things that makes Australia great is our diversity. We are determined to promote respectfor the diverse religious, racial and cultural backgrounds which underpin our cohesive community.The bottom line of this Strategy, then, is simple. We are determined to protect human life, foster thestrength and unity of our community, and uphold the values we hold most dear.The Hon Tony Abbott MPChairCouncil of Australian Governmentsiii | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

EXECUTIVESUMMARYIn September 2014, for the first time,Australia’s National Terrorism Public AlertLevel was raised to High. This reflected thejudgement of the Australian SecurityIntelligence Organisation (ASIO) that aterrorist attack was likely. The heightenedthreat level is likely to endure.Australian governments are proactivelydealing with the threat. We are working withour international partners and with theAustralian community to lower the risk of aterrorist attack and strengthen our ability torespond to, and recover from, any attack.The purpose of releasing this Strategy is toprovide information to the community on thethreat Australia faces and what we are doingto counter it. Importantly, it highlights thecommunity’s role in preventing, preparing for,responding to and recovering from a terroristattack.This Strategy sets out the framework forAustralia’s counter-terrorism arrangements. Itsituates the current terrorism threat withinthe global context and articulates how we arecountering it. It sits above and iscomplemented by the NationalCounter-Terrorism Plan; an important resourcethat outlines governance and jurisdictionalarrangements and operational responsibilitiesfor preventing, preparing, responding to andrecovering from domestic terrorist attacks.Our Strategy is based on the followingprinciples:• Protecting lives is the absolutepriority.• Governments and the communitymust face the challenge of terrorismtogether.• Terrorist acts are crimes to be dealtwith through the criminal justicesystem.Terrorism and AustraliaGlobally, ISIL, AQ and associated groupsrepresent the most significant terrorist threat.These groups are motivated by a selective,violent and extreme interpretation of Islam.Such an interpretation is alien to theoverwhelming majority of Muslims.Though ISIL is the most threateningmanifestation of this terrorist threat, AQ andsome associated groups retain the intent andcapability to mount major attacks.ISIL, in particular, exerts a direct influence inAustralia through its aggressive promotion ofviolent extremism. This group’s violentideology, persuasive propaganda, and itsgrooming of young people online is directlyresponsible for the radicalisation to violentextremism of a significant number ofindividuals in our community. As a directflow-on result, there is now a higher risk ofattacks by individuals or by small groups thanever before.Violent extremist influences in Australia willbe exacerbated by foreign fighters seeking toreturn from conflict zones in the Middle East.Some of these foreign fighters will seek toreturn with the skills, experience and apredisposition to violent action that will makethem a significant risk to the community.v | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Terrorism based on other ideological,religious, or political beliefs – such as rightwing or left wing extremists – is also ofconcern, though it does not represent thesame magnitude of threat as that posed byviolent extremists claiming to act in the nameof Islam.Resilience of the Australian communityThe Australian community’s resilience isimportant to everything we do to counterterrorism. Building and maintaining ourresilience allows us to push back againstterrorists’ attempts to intimidate us andundermine social cohesion.Australia’s Counter-Terrorism StrategyAustralia’s Counter-Terrorism Strategy is basedon partnerships between all levels ofgovernment, communities and the privatesector. It is focussed on prevention as a firstline of defence against terrorism. Our actionsare informed by thorough analysis andassessments of violent extremism here andabroad.This Strategy involves five core elements.1. Challenging violent extremistideologiesAustralia’s task to constrain the terroristthreat is fundamentally about limiting thespread and influence of violent extremistideas.Governments are working with communitiesto counter violent extremist propaganda withcarefully targeted messages. Our messagesshow people there are ways they can helpimprove the situation in Syria or Iraq, andways they can find a sense of meaning andbelonging in Australia, without resorting toviolence.Importantly, the information we provideshows the horror of living, killing and dying inthe conflict zones, including exposing thehorrific toll on local, overwhelmingly Muslim,populations.We also seek to promote the values and ideaswhich underpin our society, ideas such asequality, respect, individual freedoms,democracy and the rule of law.The exact messages conveying these themesare best developed and delivered bycommunities for their own members, thoughgovernments can help to facilitate them.2. Stopping people from becomingterroristsThe most effective defence against terrorismis to prevent people from becoming terroristsin the first place.To do this we work closely with thecommunity: families, friends and communitymembers are often in the best position toidentify individuals who are at risk ofradicalisation and help steer them away fromviolent extremism.Our aim is to prevent extremists fromexploiting vulnerable Australians and robbingthem of their futures.3. Shaping the global environmentOur efforts to counter terrorism in Australiaare complemented by coordinatedinternational action to make the globalenvironment less conducive to terrorism.Australia works with international partners,including through the United Nations, tochallenge terrorism.We also engage with a wide number ofpartner countries to build capacity andcapability, undertake joint operations, andexchange information to assist partnergovernments in detecting, monitoring andresponding to terrorism.vi | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Australia may also contribute to internationalmilitary efforts to destroy or degrade majorterrorist capabilities. Over the last decade,elements of the Australian Defence Force(ADF) have been deployed in Afghanistan andIraq for this purpose.4. Disrupting terrorist activity withinAustraliaOur law enforcement and intelligenceagencies are well-equipped to disrupt terroristactivity. They have a good history of disruptingnumerous terrorist plots. Low-capability andlimited-preparation attacks such as knifeattacks present a challenge to police andintelligence agencies because they involvelittle or no lead time, making them difficult todetect. Given the absolute focus on savinglives, agencies will prioritise early disruptionof a planned attack over waiting to gatherfurther evidence for a successful prosecution.Early disruption is also used to stop activitiesthat support or facilitate terrorism, but whichmay fall short of specific attack planning.There are a range of methods that can beused to send a message to individuals thattheir activities have attracted the attention ofauthorities in an attempt to dissuade themfrom further action.5. Effective response and recoveryIf an attack does occur, we have robustarrangements in place to respond to any actof terrorism, from low-preparation tocoordinated multi-jurisdiction mass-casualtyattacks.States and Territories lead the response to anyattacks within their jurisdictions. They canrequest assistance from other States,Territories or the Commonwealth as required.States and Territories may also ask for the ADFto provide specialist skills or equipment toassist in response and recovery. State andTerritory police and the Australian FederalPolice (AFP) are highly trained andwell-equipped to respond to a terrorist attack.Our police are skilled in investigation,negotiation, tactical response, defusingexplosives, crisis management and hostagerecovery, enabling effective responses toterrorist attacks across all jurisdictions. Ouremergency response and health services arealso well-prepared to respond to any terroristincident.Australian governments work closely withcritical infrastructure and key serviceproviders, including electricity, gas, water andtransport utilities, to reduce the impact of anyterrorist attack on such facilities and services.In the event of a terrorist attack, we will workcalmly and efficiently to bring the perpetratorsto justice and to ensure that we can all returnto our everyday activities with confidence. Arange of government agencies and communityorganisations are prepared to assist thecommunity in an effective recovery.Governance and accountabilityCountering terrorism is a responsibility sharedby all Australian governments, the communityand the private sector.The dynamic nature of the terrorist threat,and the rapid growth of home-grown and loneactor elements, demands rigorous monitoringand assessment to ensure our arrangementsremain properly targeted and implemented.To this end, Australia’s nationalcounter-terrorism coordinating body, theAustralia-New Zealand Counter-TerrorismCommittee (ANZCTC), meets regularly tomonitor and assess the effectiveness ofcounter-terrorism arrangements. The ANZCTCreports to the Council of AustralianGovernments (COAG) annually.vii | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

TERRORISM ANDAUSTRALIAThe most significant terrorist threat toAustralian interests is from ISIL, AQ andindividuals and networks inspired by the samebroad ideology. This extremist ideology hasbeen the philosophical foundation for manyterrorist groups. ISIL, AQ and Boko Haram arecurrent prominent examples.The threat of terrorism based on otherideological, political or religious beliefs, whilenot of the same magnitude as that posed byISIL and AQ, is also of concern.The global environmentFifteen years of concerted pressure inAfghanistan, Pakistan and elsewhere has seenthe stature and capability of AQ diminished.However, AQ and others have taken advantageof instability in the Middle East – particularlyin Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Libya – to buildcapacity, spread their ideology, and organiseand launch attacks.ISIL’s emergence in the Syria-Iraq conflict zoneis the most striking example of thisphenomenon. Indeed, ISIL represents a new‘business model’ for extremist groups. With itsincome from extortion, oil and contrabandsales, as well as funding from wealthysponsors, ISIL is now among thebest-resourced of terrorist groups. BecauseISIL actively seeks new recruits from aroundthe world (not just Syria and Iraq), its numbersare growing and it is now the biggest terroristgroup. The unilateral declaration of a globalcaliphate has also boosted the flood of foreignfighters joining ISIL’s ranks from approximately100 different countries, including Australia.ISIL is, therefore, also the most‘internationalised’ of the terrorist groups tohave emerged in theMiddle East. Its large contingent of foreignfighters not only adds to its capabilities inSyria and Iraq, but also plays a role inradicalising and influencing others globally.Elsewhere in the world, notably in parts ofAfrica, violent extremist groups, often inspiredby ISIL or AQ, are exploiting instability andoperating in new areas.Many of these groups are under little or nocounter-terrorism pressure. Most willprioritise local fights. Al Shabaab, for example,prioritises its war against the Governments ofSomalia and Kenya and African interventionforces. Al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghrebprioritises its clashes with Malian and otherregional troops. But some of these groups willalso attempt attacks on Western interests intheir areas of operation.The threat to AustraliaRecent developments have demonstrated theclose relationships and shared ideologiesbetween violent extremists in Australia andterrorist groups overseas.ISIL, AQ and associated groups are exerting aninfluence in Australia through propagandaflowing into our communities. This isincreasing the risk of home-grown violentextremism, particularly by encouraging loneactor attacks.1 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Lone actor terrorist attacks‘Lone actor’ terrorist attacks can be characterised in many ways, including ‘home-grown’,‘self-initiated’ or ‘low-threshold’. They involve an individual or individuals operating with little or nodirect contact with established terrorist groups.This does not mean that lone actors operate in perfect isolation. They may be inspired by extremistideology and terrorist groups’ public calls for small-scale, but high-impact, attacks. Because theseattacks may only involve minimal planning, preparation or resourcing they are harder for agencies todetect and disrupt.Terrorist groups seek to use lone actor attacks to promote their ideologies and generate fear.This type of attack was illustrated by the murder of British soldier Fusilier Lee Rigby by twoindividuals born and radicalised in the United Kingdom. The pair initially attacked Fusilier Rigby witha car, before stabbing him to death.It is also possible that individuals who are notpart of, or inspired by, a proscribed terroristgroup but who are fixated on a particularissue will employ lone actor-type methods inAustralia, requiring counter-terrorismresponses from agencies and the community.The case of Anders Breivik who killed 77people in Norway in 2011, underscores thispossibility. Breivik was motivated by a far-rightextremist worldview based on distorted andcomplex ideologies.Larger scale attacksThere have been a number of mass casualtyterror plots in Australia. Plans for masscasualty attacks in New South Wales andVictoria, uncovered by Operation Pendennis(2005) and Operation Neath (2009) weresuccessfully disrupted through multi-state andmulti-agency efforts.While increasingly the focus is on the growingnumber of individuals and groups prepared tocommit low-preparation attacks, large scaleattacks against high profile targets withinAustralia remain a possibility.The Martin Place siegeOn the morning of 15 December 2014, Man Haron Monis walked into the Lindt Café in Martin Place,in the heart of Sydney’s commercial district. Shortly thereafter, he produced a gun and lockedcustomers and staff inside as hostages. After a standoff lasting around 17 hours, the siege ended ingunfire. Two hostages and Monis died. Several other hostages sustained injuries.Monis had a long history of provocative, attention-seeking behaviour. He was the subject of manylaw enforcement and security investigations and assessments over the period of his residence inAustralia. However, neither of these investigations, nor the continuous assessment of informationrelated to Monis in the intervening periods, provided any indication he had the intention to commitan act such as the Martin Place siege.2 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Foreign fightersAmong the foreign recruits joining theconflicts in the Middle East are anunprecedented number of Australians. Farmore Australian foreign fighters are associatedwith ISIL and Jabhat al-Nusra (a branch of AQoperating in Syria and Lebanon) than wereassociated with AQ and the Taliban from 1990to 2010.Not all who are motivated to support terroristorganisations will join the actual fighting.Of the Australians who would otherwise havebeen motivated to travel and join ISIL or othergroups, there are significant numbers whohave been unable to leave Australia (generallybecause their passports have been cancelled).At least some of these individuals maycontemplate terrorist activity here.Many individuals who do join ISIL or othergroups are committed to their ideology andmay not wish to return to Australia. Manyothers will be killed in the fighting or die ofother causes. However, there will still be somewho seek to return. Based on previousexperience these returnees represent a realrisk.Some will support terrorism: for example, byactively recruiting others to terrorism. Somemay plan to commit terrorist attacksthemselves.Where possible, those who return will beprosecuted and imprisoned. Where this is notpossible, security and intelligence agencieswill have to monitor and manage thesereturnees.Significantly, many of the earlier generation ofAQ- and Taliban-affiliated foreign fighterreturnees did not become involved in terroristplots until more than five years after theirreturn. This, combined with the extremeviolence which characterises groups such asISIL, suggests that the threat arising fromreturnees from the Syria-Iraq conflict zoneswill be with us for many years.A number of individuals, including Australians,are also travelling to conflict zones in theMiddle East to take up arms against ISIL ratherthan to fight alongside them. Fighting againstISIL is not an acceptable way for an individualto seek to improve the situation in Syria orIraq either.Australians returning from conflict zonesAustralians travelling to conflictzonesAfghanistan and Pakistan 11990 – 2010(20 years)Approximately 30Syria and Iraq2011 – mid-2015(4 years and counting)Over 120 to dateReturned to Australia 25 Over 30 to dateSubsequently involved in activitiesof security concernConvicted of terrorism-relatedoffences (some years after return)19 None to date8 None to date3 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

1 Note that Australians (suspected foreign fighters) have also been involved in conflicts in Somalia, Chechnya andelsewhere.Terrorism in our regionMany Southeast Asian countries have builtsignificant counter-terrorism capabilities overthe last decade.Indonesia, in particular, has proven veryeffective in degrading and reducing thecapabilities of violent extremist organisations.In recent years it has emerged as a regionalcounter-terrorism leader.The conflicts in Syria and Iraq have alsoattracted extremists from across SoutheastAsia. Many will seek to return to plan attacksagainst local and Western targets and attemptto extend the reach of ISIL’s self-declaredcaliphate.These fighters will spread knowledge, skillsand resources, and strengthen internationalterrorist connections. These were the two keyelements in the 2002 to 2009 anti-Westernbombing campaigns in Bali and Jakarta.other racially- and culturally-motivatedideologies.The increased threat from groups such as ISILand AQ and sympathisers within Australia hastriggered some hate propaganda and attacksby nationalist and white supremacistextremist movements and individuals. This isexacerbating local intercommunal tensionsand risks reinforcing terrorist recruitmentpropaganda by fueling perceptions of Muslimpersecution.Over time, the terrorism threat picture forAustralia will change. Groups on the politicalfar right, for instance, have posed a terroristthreat in the past and may resurface.However, there is no evidence that suchgroups pose a significant threat to Australia inthe short to medium term.As returning foreign fighters bolster the ranksof extremists in the region, terrorists involvedin earlier attacks, particularly in the period of2000 to 2010, have served their sentencesand are being released from Southeast Asianprisons. Many of these individuals will retaintheir violent extremist views and maytherefore bolster regional terroristcapabilities.Given the large number of Australians whotravel to Southeast Asia for tourism orbusiness, the possibility of another masscasualty attack involving Australians cannot beruled out.Other potential threatsViolence in the Middle East may sparkcommunal tensions in Australia. Socialcohesion could also be undermined by violentexpressions of Islamophobia, anti-Semitism or4 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

RESILIENCE OF THEAUSTRALIANCOMMUNITYTerrorists aim to create fear and intimidation.Even a failed attack may spread fear.We must remain resilient. Simply continuingto go about our daily activities in the face ofterrorist threats will send a clear messageabout our resolve.(Physical resilience, which relates to criticalinfrastructure and essential services, isaddressed in Chapter 5: Effective Recovery andResponse.)Social cohesionPublic communicationsAustralians need access to accurate and timelyinformation about the extent and nature of aterrorist threat. Effective publiccommunication about terrorism, especiallyduring and following a terrorist attack, iscritical to avoid speculation, misinformationand panic.Australian governments work with mediaoutlets and community organisations toensure the public is appropriately informedabout terrorist incidents.Australians have access to official informationabout terrorism in foreign countries throughthe government website Smart Traveller(www.smartraveller.gov.au). This enablesresilience and vigilance in times of emergency.Peaceful expression of diverse political,religious and ideological views is an importantand highly valued feature of Australian life. Anobjective of terrorism is to undermine ourvalues and social cohesion. We must not letthis happen.The Martin Place siege deeply affectedAustralians. In the aftermath of the siege, aminority of individuals sought to incite hatredagainst Muslims. In response to this, manyAustralians took to social media todemonstrate that Australians are united in theface of terrorism.The sea of flowers alongside messages ofsympathy and support in Martin Placedemonstrated that Australians were united inour stance against violent extremism.5 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

AUSTRALIA’SCOUNTER-TERRORISMSTRATEGYOur counter-terrorism efforts are focussed onprevention and are informed by diligentanalysis and assessment of violent extremismhere and abroad. Our emphasis is on reducingthe lure of violent extremist ideologies inAustralia, stopping Australians from choosingviolence to express their views, and disruptingterrorist activity.Despite our best efforts, there can be noguarantees that a terrorist attack will notoccur. Therefore, we are continuing to developour capabilities and resources to effectivelyrespond to, and recover from attacks.Australia’s national Counter-TerrorismStrategy is built on:• Challenging violent extremist ideologies• Stopping people from becoming terrorists• Shaping the global environment• Disrupting terrorist activity withinAustralia• Effective response and recovery6 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

1. CHALLENGINGVIOLENT EXTREMISTIDEOLOGIESConstraining the terrorist threat isfundamentally about limiting the spread andinfluence of violent extremist ideas.Violent extremist ideology promoted bygroups like ISIL and AQ is currently the keydriver of terrorist activity across the globe.While these groups claim to act in the nameof Islam, the vast majority of Muslims rejecttheir ideologies. Indeed it is Muslims whohave suffered the most at the hands ofterrorist groups.Governments across Australia are helpingcommunities and local organisations to sharetheir own messages countering violentextremist ideologies. Messages from withincommunities, particularly those from familyand friends, are more likely to influence thethinking and behaviour of those attracted toviolent extremist ideologies than messagesdelivered from outside.For example, islamate.org.au connects trustedIslamic scholars with young people acrossgeographic boundaries so they can provideadvice and guidance. Similarly the emagazine,The Point Magazine features the views ofyoung people and community and religiousleaders on a wide range of issues relating tothe negative impact of violent extremism onthe community.ISIL has been particularly successful inproducing messages that resonate with someindividuals across the globe. Their declarationof a caliphate in June 2014 is an example ofsuch messaging.To limit the effectiveness of violent extremists’propaganda, their false claims must beexposed. For example, in contrast to theirpropaganda, the reality of joining ISIL orsimilar groups is that individuals will besubjected to brutality and cruelty and maywell be killed.Countering violent extremist ideologies thatcontradict our core values is the responsibilityof governments and communities. We mustremain vigilant of all ideologies that promotethe use of unlawful violence to achieve itsgoals.What do we mean by ‘violent extremism’and ‘radicalisation’ in this Strategy?Violent extremism: a willingness to useunlawful violence, or support the use ofviolence by others, to promote a political,ideological or religious goal. Violentextremism includes terrorism, other forms ofpolitically motivated violence and some formsof communal violence (e.g. racially motivatedviolence).Radicalisation: the process by whichindividuals come to accept violent extremismas a legitimate means of pursuing theirpolitical, ideological or religious goals. Theradicalisation process is unique to eachindividual. However, it often includes acombination of exposure to violent extremistpropaganda and adverse social and economicfactors.The role of the internetThe online environment is easily accessiblebut difficult to monitor – terrorists takeadvantage of this. The internet enablesterrorists to spread propaganda, connect witheach other, groom and recruit people, andplan and execute terrorist attacks.7 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Some terrorist propaganda, such as AQ’sInspire or ISIL’s Dabiq, and more recently, thechoreographed videos made by these groups,is well-produced and seeks to portray a senseof legitimacy. Its aim is to persuade individualsto reject their own societies, and to promotefighting for and supporting terroristorganisations.The proliferation of detailed and graphicvideos of terrorist activities online (such asbeheadings or terrorist training) givesimpressionable individuals exposure to imagesnot too dissimilar to what they wouldexperience if they actually travelled to Syria orIraq. These graphic images and messages mayplay a role in radicalising individuals. They mayalso incite fear and outrage in the generalpublic.The internet can also be used to counterterrorist propaganda and to connect at-riskindividuals with the people and services thathelp prevent them being influenced by violentextremist propaganda.If you see violent extremist material onlineyou should report it by calling the NationalSecurity Hotline or by going to:reportextremism.livingsafetogether.gov.aufalsehoods and propaganda that are part ofthe appeal of violent extremist ideologies.They can also encourage individuals to seekhelp from government agencies and engagewith support services.Agencies and providers of online services havea key role in limiting the availability of terroristpropaganda. Similarly, social media platformsplay an important role in identifying andacting on online extremist content. Forexample, companies such as Facebook andTwitter are actively monitoring, reporting andin some cases closing down violent extremistsites.Media and news organisations can play apositive role by reporting on propagandawithout giving it undue attention orglamorising it. They can also help defusepossible community tensions and promotesocial cohesion.Australian governments have committedfunds to enhance the work of communities,the private sector and international partnersto undermine the online propaganda ofviolent extremists. This work will also includeresearch to better understand the impact ofviolent extremist propaganda on Australiansand strategies to empower community andcivil society voices that combat terroristideology.Role of the community and privatesectorIt is not just the family and friends ofvulnerable individuals who can provideguidance and support to resist violentextremist messages. Community leaders,community groups, teachers and many othersplay a constructive role in exposing the8 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Prevention is the focus of Australia’s Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Preventing violent extremistideologies from influencing Australians is a first line of defence against terrorism. When this fails,Australian government agencies use all tools at their disposal to divert people from radicalising toviolent extremism and disrupt terrorist activity. These tools range from community support servicesto arrest and prosecution. The next three chapters provide further detail.9 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

2. STOPPING PEOPLEFROM BECOMINGTERRORISTSThe most effective defence against terrorism isto prevent people from becoming terrorists inthe first place.There is no one process or pathway toradicalisation to violent extremism. The exactcombination of causes and drivers are uniqueto each individual. The common element inthe process, however, is exposure to a violentextremist ideology (see Chapter 1: ChallengingViolent Extremist Ideologies for moreinformation).Family, friends and communities are thefrontline in stopping people from becomingterrorists. Australian governments supportlocal communities in this endeavour byproviding training and resources.Efforts to prevent radicalisation focus onaddressing what makes people vulnerable toviolent extremist influences and terroristrecruitment. The tools used includeindividually-tailored programmes that supportthe diversion of individuals at risk ofradicalisation to violent extremism andprogrammes to deradicalise and rehabilitateindividuals.In addition to challenging violent extremistideologies, Australian governments andcommunities are also working together toimprove social cohesion, identify and divertat-risk individuals, and deradicalise thosealready influenced by violent extremism. Likeother forms of crime prevention, the aim ofthese activities is to help people get their livesback on track. The focus is not on individualswho hold unconventional beliefs; rather, it ison those who are radicalised, or at-risk ofradicalisation, to violent extremism.What are we doing to stop radicalisationto violent extremism?To prevent individuals becoming or remainingradicalised, Australian governments areworking with communities to:• Address the drivers of radicalisation:building the resilience of communities toviolent extremism.• Assist at-risk individuals: supporting thediversion of individuals at risk of radicalisationto violent extremism when possible.• Rehabilitate violent extremists whenpossible.Addressing drivers of radicalisationThe common element in radicalisation isexposure to violent extremist ideology. Ourapproach to challenging this ideology iscovered in Chapter: 1 Challenging ViolentExtremist Ideologies. Other drivers, such associal isolation, a longing for a sense ofpurpose or belonging, long-termunemployment, criminality, or perceivedpolitical grievances, may also contribute.Individuals within a cohesive community – onethat values respect, individual freedoms,democracy and the rule of law – may be moreresilient to violent extremist ideology.Australian governments and communities canwork to reduce the impact of these drivers ofradicalisation by improving social cohesionand participation. This can be done througheducation, helping people find jobs,preventing crime, promoting workplacediversity, and supporting families andcommunity organisations.Tensions within or between communities canalso be a critical driver of radicalisationtowards violent extremism. These will oftendrive feelings of isolation and politicalgrievances that can contribute toradicalisation.10 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Assisting at-risk individualsGovernment agencies across Australia workwith and support local efforts to stopindividuals from radicalising. This can rangefrom providing targeted financial grants,resources, advice and training for communityorganisations, to more structuredinterventions and government-coordinatedprogrammes.The first step in assisting any individual is toidentify that they may be at risk of radicalising.Each circumstance is unique, but in somecases the next step may be to develop andimplement a tailored plan to divert theindividual away from a path to violentextremism.Governments and communities also worktogether to help rehabilitate individuals whohave been radicalised to violent extremism,including convicted terrorists.Australian government agencies, family andfriends and community groups, will worktogether to make the plan work. There are arange of community based and governmentsupported services and programmes to helpcounteract the drivers of radicalisation. Theseinclude mentoring and coaching, counselling,education and employment support, andoutreach and leadership programmes.Radicalisation to violent extremism isundoubtedly distressing for family members,friends and communities. Some people areconcerned that seeking advice or assistancefrom government agencies could be viewed asbetraying their loved ones.While at some level these feelings areunderstandable, it is nonetheless ineveryone’s interests to identify and help atriskindividuals as early as possible. This willhelp to ensure harm does not come to themor others. The sooner this can be done, thequicker they can return to being productivemembers of the community.What are the signs an individual may beat risk of radicalisation to violentextremism?Individuals in the early stages of the process ofradicalisation to violent extremism will start tochange what they think and may begin tobehave differently.• They are likely to start following anincreasingly strict and literal understanding ofa given belief. This may see them vilifying ordiscriminating against others or openlyrejecting Australian laws and customs.• They will probably visit extremist orterrorist groups' websites and share thisinformation with others.• Some people withdraw from family, endfriendships or start spending more time withsmaller, tight-knit groups of people who sharetheir extreme beliefs.For information and advice on radicalisation toviolent extremism, visitwww.livingsafetogether.gov.auWhen early intervention isn’t enoughwithin AustraliaDespite our best efforts, early intervention willnot stop all individuals from radicalising. Ifsecurity and law enforcement agenciesbecome aware that an individual has becomea threat to themselves or others, that personwill be investigated and monitored asappropriate. See Chapter 4: DisruptingTerrorist Activity for more information.11 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

3. SHAPING THEGLOBALENVIRONMENTTerrorism is a global issue – the threat toAustralia is directly related to terrorismabroad. This is evidenced by the spread ofISIL’s propaganda into Australia’s suburbs andcommunities, and the flow of fighters to andfrom conflict zones in the Middle East. Ourcounter-terrorism activities must therefore beglobal in outlook. We will have the greatestimpact when we work with partners incoordinated global action against terrorism.Australia implements sanctions againstterrorist groups and contributes to developingbest practices and strengthening internationalframeworks for responding to terrorism. Wedo this by working with partner countriesthrough multilateral bodies including theUnited Nations and the GlobalCounter-Terrorism Forum.We also work with civil society to counterinternational violent extremism.Working with partner countriesAustralia has strong, long-standingrelationships with traditional securitypartners, particularly the United States,United Kingdom, Canada and New Zealand.Our intelligence and information-sharingarrangements, legal cooperation, and defencepartnerships with these key countries help uscounter terrorism at home and abroad.Australia also works with other partnercountries to share information, build capacityand capability and engage in operations todegrade and disrupt and prosecute terroristsand their activities. We cooperate oncounter-terrorism with a number of countries,in particular across Southeast Asia, andincreasingly with partners in the Middle Eastand Europe.In some cases, Australia has also contributedto international military efforts to remove orlimit the strategic space available to terroristgroups. Our operations in Afghanistan and Iraqare examples of such efforts.Information sharingAustralia shares intelligence with partnercountries to identify and disrupt terroristnetworks. Information regarding persons andorganisations of concern, such as theirinternational travel and financial transactions,help Australia and its partners build a morecomplete picture of terrorism financing,terrorist movements and networks.Australia works with international partners tostop the illegal flow of funds to terroriststhrough front organisations, registeredfinancial institutions or not-for-profits.Terrorist groups also use a range of financingmethods. These includes taxing goods andwages; controlling resources such as oil, gas,crops and minerals; kidnapping for ransom;theft and selling stolen antiquities.Capacity and capability buildingAustralia works closely with regional partnersto develop counter-terrorism capacity andcapability. Commonwealth agencies providetraining, advice and resources to:• Strengthen counter-terrorism laws.• Develop the skills of law enforcement andintelligence agencies to disrupt terroristnetworks.• Facilitate the use of advanced technology toidentify, investigate, monitor and counterterrorism.• Build response and recovery capability toterrorist attacks.12 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Australia also receives training from partnercountries. This allows us to draw on theexpertise of foreign governments.Australian law enforcement agencies and theADF also provide training to their counterpartsin the Middle East, including in Iraq.The Jakarta Centre for Law EnforcementCooperationThe Jakarta Centre for Law EnforcementCooperation (JCLEC) was established by theCommonwealth Government of Australia andthe Indonesian Government to build capacityin the region in response to the 2002 Balibombings. It is jointly operated by theIndonesian National Police and the AFP.Australia and Iraq: The Building PartnerCapacity missionIn April 2015, the Australian Governmentannounced that the ADF, in close partnershipwith the New Zealand Defence Force, wouldprovide training to the Iraqi Army to buildtheir capacity to regain territory from ISIL andre-establish control over their country’ssecurity.The mission underlines Australia’scommitment to supporting stability in Iraq andthe Middle East and helping to stop the spreadof violent extremism to our own region.JCLEC provides law enforcement training onissues such as countering violent extremism,investigating terrorism financing, and usingsocial media in counter-terrorismprosecutions. It has provided training toapproximately 17,000 Indonesian and regionallaw and justice officials.There are many safe and legal waysAustralians can contribute to humanitarianrelief efforts in overseas conflicts. Informationon appeals can be found at the AustralianCouncil for International Developmentwebsite: http://www.acfid.asn.au/.These appeals help the millions of peopledisplaced by conflicts such as in Syria and Iraqby providing food, water and shelter.13 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

4. DISRUPTINGTERRORIST ACTIVITYWITHIN AUSTRALIAWe are doing everything possible to preventindividuals from radicalising towards violentextremism. However, no matter how effectiveour programmes are in this regard, somepeople will still plan to commit an act ofterrorism. Our law enforcement andintelligence agencies are well-equipped todisrupt terrorists and have been successful indisrupting numerous terrorist plots to date.Protecting lives is our absolute priority. Tosave lives, agencies will prioritise earlydisruption of a planned attack over thegathering of evidence for a successfulprosecution. This is why those arrested canoften be released without charges shortlythereafter: police will always place publicsafety ahead of securing a successfulprosecution.We can choose to disrupt activities of concernin a number of other ways. An option might beto send a message to individuals that theiractivities have attracted the attention ofauthorities, and that they are beingmonitored, in an attempt to dissuade themfrom further action. This may be done throughsuspending payment of welfare claims whereappropriate, preventing international traveldue to non-payment of tax, passport or visacancellations.When more specific information is available,agencies may also use other measures such aspreventative detention and control orders todisrupt individuals.Close operational cooperation across theCommonwealth, States and Territories,including through Joint Counter-TerrorismTeams (JCTTs) in each jurisdiction, has proveneffective in detecting and disrupting acts ofterrorism in Australia. Through COAG, Statesand Territories are also working together tostrengthen identity management and protectidentity use, and to improve the tracking offirearms and further restrict the movementand use of illegal firearms. This work willcomplement other activities to counterterrorism.The lone actor challengeLone actors operating on the periphery orindependently of known extremist networksare difficult for law enforcement andintelligence agencies to detect. The lowcapability required for attacks – a kitchenknife, for example – means there may be littletime between violent extremists formingintent and then committing an act ofterrorism.Developing disruption plansIntelligence and law enforcement agenciesgather and assess the information needed toplan disruption activities. They identifyindividuals and networks radicalising, planningattacks, supporting terrorist groups overseasor seeking to participate in foreign conflicts.Agencies then assess the threats theseindividuals or groups pose to Australia’ssecurity and may refer the case to theNational Disruption Group – a multi-agencylaw enforcement body – so that a plan todisrupt terrorist activities can be developed.14 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Working together – Joint Counter-Terrorism TeamsJCTTs were first established in 2002 to better coordinate Commonwealth, State and Territorycounter-terrorism investigations. They exist in each Australian jurisdiction and comprise relevantState and Territory law enforcement agencies, the AFP and ASIO. Some JCTTs also include other lawenforcement and regulatory agencies.JCTTs are flexible and adaptive multi-agency teams drawing on the expertise and special capabilitiesof their members. While each JCTT may differ in its structure and membership, they provide anationally consistent vehicle for investigating and disrupting terrorist activities in Australia.As the threat environment has evolved, JCTTs have focussed on early disruption to prevent terroristacts. Operations in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in 2014-15 demonstrated the speed with whichJCTTs can mobilise and disrupt an attack.Australia’s counter-terrorism legislationAustralia has a strong legislative framework for countering terrorism.Australia’s national security legislation is largely a preventative regime that enables intelligence andlaw enforcement agencies to intervene at an early stage before a terrorist act occurs. In addition toengaging in a terrorist act, it is an offence to advocate, prepare, plan or train for a terrorist act. It isalso an offence to be a member of, or associate with, a terrorist organisation. Where police do nothave sufficient evidence to charge a person for one of these offences, they have special powers toprevent terrorist activities.Control orders are issued by a court to impose restrictions on individuals who are suspected ofterrorist involvement. A control order can be imposed whether or not the person has been chargedor convicted of a criminal offence. Restrictions enforced under a control order could include orders tonot contact or associate with certain individuals, or to not use certain technology such as theinternet. The use of these powers must be supported by substantial evidence.Preventative detention orders enable police to detain individuals where there is a threat of animminent terrorist attack or immediately after a terrorist attack has occurred. The maximum time aperson can be preventatively detained is 14 days.The legislative framework contains thresholds and safeguards to ensure the powers available to lawenforcement agencies are proportionate, and only used where appropriate and where there is afundamental risk to public safety. As the terrorist threat evolves and new challenges emerge, we willcontinue to review our laws and update them as needed to keep Australians as safe as possible.15 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Disrupting the movement of terroristsand support for terrorismDisruption activities also involve identifyingand stopping people departing Australia tofight overseas, restricting the movementoffshore of potential Australian foreignfighters (including to transit countries), andstopping terrorists, violent extremistpropaganda and weapons from enteringAustralia.Agencies may stop these people fromtravelling by cancelling passports, undertakingbiometric identity checking processes at theborder or imposing strict visa controls.Preventing potential foreign fighters fromtravelling stops them from directlycontributing to terrorist organisations andnetworks. It may also stop them from dying inconflicts overseas. However, preventing theirtravel may lead to frustration, alienation andanger, and may drive further radicalisationthat could culminate in domestic terroristattacks. Should activities of concern arise,agencies are ready to take appropriate action,and we are working with the community toprovide clear messaging on why we preventtravel.Not all of these foreign fighters would intendto engage in terrorist activity. Even so, theirterrorist connections, skills and experience,combined with a predisposition to violentaction still hold the potential to create securityissues in the long-term.Some foreign fighters may seek to returnhome with the intent to conduct terroristattacks in Australia or to radicalise elements ofthe Australian community. Agencies will takeaction to mitigate the significant security riskthese individuals pose.Each individual seeking to return to Australiawould be managed on a case-by-case basis.This may involve the use of several disruptionapproaches.Options include prosecutions for terrorismoffences overseas or personal restrictions(including permanent or temporary exclusionfrom Australia of non-citizens, control orders,cancellation of passports). Others may chooseto cooperate with government andcommunity initiatives and participate incountering violent extremism programmesand other preventative programmes.Managing returned foreign fightersThe number of Australians looking to fightwith or support terrorist organisationsoverseas is growing. While some will die orchoose to stay overseas permanently, somemay seek to return home.16 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

5. EFFECTIVERESPONSE ANDRECOVERYIn the event of a terrorist incident, Australia iswell-positioned to respond immediately to awide range of terrorist incidents (includingmulti-jurisdiction, mass-casualty attacks).Our agencies are well-placed to coordinaterecovery efforts to assist the Australiancommunity to return to everyday activities.Responding to a terrorist incidentStates and Territories are responsible forresponding to domestic terrorist attackswithin their own jurisdiction. State andTerritory police lead on-the-ground responsesto terrorism and investigate terrorist incidentsin close cooperation with Commonwealth lawenforcement and intelligence agencies.State and Territory emergency services andhospitals are also well-prepared to respond toa terrorist attack.Australian governments work closely withcritical infrastructure and key serviceproviders, including electricity, gas, water andtransport sectors to prevent and reduce theimpact of any potential terrorist attack. Thisincludes setting and enforcing standards forcounter-terrorism measures and monitoringcompliance, putting systems in place to stopterrorists from accessing critical infrastructureand working with the private sector toimprove their ability to keep essential servicesoperating even in the event of a majorterrorist attack.A State or Territory may ask for assistancefrom other States and Territories or theCommonwealth to respond to a terroristattack. States and Territories may also ask forassistance from the ADF, which maintainsunique counter-terrorism capabilities.State, Territory and Federal Police are highlytrained and well-equipped to respond to aterrorist attack in Australia. Our police areskilled in negotiation, tactical response,defusing explosives, crisis management andhostage recovery.To create a nationwide network capable ofresponding to terrorist attacks anywhere inAustralia, the Commonwealth, States andTerritories invest in similar technology andequipment.The Commonwealth has responsibility forresponding to offshore maritime and aviationrelated terrorist attacks.Government agencies across all Australianjurisdictions conduct regular reviews andparticipate in counter-terrorism exercises totest and improve counter-terrorism capabilityand arrangements. These exercises alsoensure that States, Territories and theCommonwealth are able to work togetherseamlessly to respond to larger or morecomplex terrorism incidents.17 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Exercise IRON MOONIn 2013, Exercise IRON MOON was conducted to improve Australia’s ability to respond to a maritimeterrorist incident. Several hundred personnel from the ADF and Australian intelligence and securityagencies participated in a mock scenario in which Australian offshore interests were attacked.Exercise IRON MOON demonstrated that Australia’s multi-agency maritime response and recoveryskills were effective and well-coordinated. It reinforced the importance of testing Australia’soperational and strategic counter-terrorism arrangements. Western Australia Police participated in asupport role.The Police Command Post at Exercise Hermes CastleExercise HERMES CASTLE was a major national counter-terrorism exercise designed totest and evaluate the multi-agency response to an incident on an ADF base. Held on 7 May2015, the exercise was led by NSW Police with support from ADF, the AFP, and a number ofState and other Commonwealth partners.Multiple jurisdiction operation: G20On 15-16 November 2014, Brisbane hosted the G20 Leaders’ Summit. It was the most significantgathering of world leaders in Australia’s history, with over 25 global leaders, 4,000 delegates and2,500 media in attendance.Ensuring the security and safety of all attendees was paramount. This was a large and complexoperation, which required extensive coordination and cooperation between Queensland Governmentagencies, Commonwealth Government agencies and the private sector. Working with their State,Territory, Federal and New Zealand counterparts, Queensland Police played a central role in frontlineoperations and assisting with coordination across jurisdictions.Security measures at the Summit included venue security at the Summit’s location, law enforcementfor crowd control, close personal protection of delegations, transport and customs security to ensuretravelling parties were safe, and intelligence coordination to monitor potential terrorist threats.18 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

In addition to accrediting over 15,000 individuals, the operation involved coordinating over 6,000police officers, creating 12 restricted areas around the Summit’s venue, and passing the G20 (Safetyand Security) Bill 2013 to temporarily provide law enforcement officers with special powers to closeroads, remove vehicles from restricted areas and prohibit certain items.These were all important elements that contributed to a safe and successful Summit.Response to overseas attacksWhen an international terrorist incidentaffects Australian citizens or interests, theCommonwealth Government is responsible forcoordinating Australia’s response. Consularassistance will be provided to victims and theirfamilies.If asked by the government of an affectedcountry, Australian governments may alsoassist in responding to an overseas terroristattack, such as by providing medical, police,intelligence or forensic assistance.Recovering from a terrorist attackRecovery is the process of restoring normalityafter a terrorist attack. This includes therestoration of physical, psycho-social andeconomic wellbeing and the reconstruction ofphysical infrastructure.everyone can confidently return to theireveryday activities. A timely and efficientrecovery will undermine the success of aterrorist attack and help improve communityresilience.State and Territory governments have primaryresponsibility for recovery efforts within theirjurisdiction. Recovery activities may includesupplying food, water and shelter,reconstructing damaged areas, and providingongoing health and counselling services.State and Territory governments may alsorequest the assistance of other States,Territories or the Commonwealth Governmentin recovering from a terrorist incident.Commonwealth assistance may include theprovision of financial assistance or ADFsupport.In the event of a terrorist attack, Australiangovernments will work to ensure that19 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

Australia’s response to the 2002 Bali bombingsThe 12 October 2002 terrorist attack in Bali remains the largest single act of terrorism to have directlyaffected Australians. 202 people were killed, including 88 Australians.Australian governments worked in partnership with Indonesia to respond. The CommonwealthGovernment provided emergency evacuations for critically injured Australians and undertook a jointcriminal investigation with Indonesia.Australian State and Territory governments provided a number of important resources such as victimidentification experts and played a pivotal role in the repatriation of deceased Australians.Public health, infrastructure and theeconomyEnsuring the physical and psycho-socialwellbeing of individuals affected by a terroristact is paramount. National approaches topublic health emergencies are coordinated bythe Australian Health Protection PrincipalCommittee, which is chaired by theCommonwealth Government Chief MedicalOfficer and includes Chief Health Officers fromStates, Territories and New Zealand.Critical infrastructure is essential for ourcommunity to function normally. Australiangovernments will work closely with businessesand industry to ensure critical infrastructure isrestored as quickly as possible following aterrorist attack.Acts of terrorism may impact the financialwellbeing of individuals, businesses and thebroader economy. Financial support isavailable to individuals, businesses or Stateand Territory governments. This plays animportant role in supporting our economy inthe aftermath of a terrorist attack.20 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

The 2002 Bali bombings resulted in a large number of serious trauma and burns victims. Many of thevictims were flown to Darwin and, being too badly injured to be moved to other capital cities,remained there for treatment. Following this experience, and recognising the lack of adequatefacilities in the region, the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre was established inDarwin.The Centre is now a key element of our emergency medical response to incidents of national andinternational significance, including terrorist incidents. The value of the Centre has been proven onmany occasions including following the 2005 Bali bombings when many more burns and blast victimswere airlifted to Darwin and treated at the Centre. The Centre maintains its equipment and its coremedical response team in Darwin, working closely with the Northern Territory Police and EmergencyServices to train, exercise and respond to a range of incidents.21 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

GOVERNANCE ANDACCOUNTABILITYgaps are addressed.Countering terrorism is a shared responsibilitybetween all Australian governments,communities, and the private sector. TheInter-Governmental Agreement on Australia’sNational Counter-Terrorism Arrangements setsout how governments work together.All Australian jurisdictions havecomprehensive counter-terrorism governancearrangements. The ANZCTC is the nationalcoordinating body for counter-terrorism whichreports to COAG. The ANZCTC is co-chaired bya State or Territory representative and theCommonwealth Counter-TerrorismCoordinator, who is the primary contactbetween the Commonwealth and the Statesand Territories on counter-terrorism issues.This Strategy provides an overarching strategicframework for Australia’s nationalcounter-terrorism arrangements. It situatesthe current terrorism threat to Australiawithin the global context and articulates howwe are countering it at home and abroad. It iscomplemented by the NationalCounter-Terrorism Plan; an important resourcethat outlines governance and jurisdictionalarrangements and operational responsibilitiesfor preventing, preparing, responding to andrecovering from domestic terrorist attacks.EvaluationsThe ANZCTC produces an annual report forCOAG. From 2016 this will include anevaluation of the Strategy against thechanging terrorist threat. The ANZCTC alsoassesses Australia’s counter-terrorismcapabilities against the present threatenvironment. It ensures decisions regardingresources, training and capabilities arecoordinated at the national level and that any22 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY

PHOTO REFERENCESFront Cover Australian flag waving iStockMartin Place flowersiStockPolice officers in tactical gearNSW PolicePolice officers playing cards with childrenACT PolicePage 5 Sydney pays respect to victims after 16 hour siege Getty ImagesPage 13 JCLEC logo AFPPage 14 Police officer and suspect NSW PolicePage 14 Legislation definition iStockPage 14 Gavel iStockPage 16 Smartgate at airport ACBPSPage 17 Emergency service personnel in front of ambulance NSW PolicePage 17 Crime scene in Melbourne Getty ImagesPage 18 Exercise Hermes Castle NSW PolicePage 19 G20 Leader’s Summit photograph G20 AustraliaPage 20 Police talking to a civilian AFPPage 20 ADF personnel carrying a stretcher DefencePage 21 Medical personnel and ambulance NCCTRC24 | AUSTRALIA’S COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY