Australia stands with UK and US against China’s state-backed cyber intrusions

In a recent development, Australia has voiced its condemnation against the “malicious cyber activities” carried out by Chinese state-backed hackers, aligning itself with the United Kingdom and the United States in their stance against these cyber intrusions. This united front comes after Britain announced sanctions against individuals and a company linked to the cyber attacks, and the US indicted seven individuals for hacking on behalf of Chinese intelligence.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil issued a joint statement, underscoring the unacceptable nature of these cyber attacks targeting democratic institutions and parliamentarians. “The Australian government joins the United Kingdom and other international partners in expressing serious concerns about malicious cyber activities by China state-backed actors,” they stated, emphasizing the need for such behaviour to cease.

Despite these allegations, Australia’s electoral systems remain secure, unaffected by the cyber campaigns that targeted the UK. The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) has pointed to China as a primary source of state-backed cyber hacks against large companies and critical infrastructure, highlighting the ongoing threat to national and international security.

In related news, Australia’s government faces scrutiny over its transparency regarding the overhaul of the country’s fuel efficiency standards. Critics have labelled the proposed changes, which aim to reduce emissions from motor vehicles, as a “ute tax,” sparking debate among political parties and industry groups. The government insists it is consulting with stakeholders to strike the right balance for Australia’s future.

As Australia positions itself against China’s cyber activities and navigates domestic policy challenges, the nation stands at a crossroads, seeking to protect its democratic values and ensure a sustainable future.