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Foreign interference? New Australian guidelines spark controversy
The Australian government is considering updating its guidelines for universities when it comes to monitoring and guarding against foreign interference
The anti-interference guidelines were initially introduced in 2019, at a time when there were concerns growing about Chinese influence at Australian campuses, encouraging staff to disclose suspected foreign affiliations and relationships.
Although these latest reviews and amendments have not been finalised, it’s believed they include measures such as training students to recognise and then report any foreign meddling.
This has caused some concern amongst the academic community, with fears the government is overstepping the mark.
It follows Human Rights Watch issuing a report in June, saying Australian universities are home to “an atmosphere of fear” for international students from China and Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, back in March, the head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation warned that foreign interference at Australian universities is at its highest levels… and authorities need to act.