Two Russian-born Australian citizens have been charged with preparing for an espionage offense in Australia. The married couple, who had been residing in Australia for over a decade, were arrested at their home in Everton Park, a suburb of Brisbane.
The woman, aged 40, was an army private working as an information systems technician with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for several years. Her husband, aged 62, was a self-employed laborer. Both individuals obtained Australian citizenship, with the woman becoming a citizen in 2016 and her husband in 2020.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) allege that the couple collaborated to access ADF material related to Australia's national security interests. The investigation is ongoing, but authorities have not identified any significant compromise or involvement of other individuals at this stage.
The woman allegedly traveled to Russia without notifying Australian authorities while on long-term leave from the ADF. During her time in Russia, she reportedly instructed her husband in Australia on how to access her official work account remotely. The husband then allegedly obtained and sent requested material to his wife in Russia, with the intention of providing it to Russian authorities.
The AFP is focusing on determining whether the accessed information was indeed handed over to Russian authorities, which could lead to an upgraded charge of espionage. The investigation will also examine how the woman obtained security clearance and managed to travel to Russia undetected.
This case marks the first time an espionage offense has been pursued under laws introduced in 2018. The charge of preparing for an espionage offense carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, while an upgraded charge could result in a maximum term of 25 years to life.
ASIO Director-General emphasized the real threat of espionage and the importance of safeguarding Australia's secrets. He highlighted the need for vigilance and emphasized that multiple countries are actively seeking to steal sensitive information from Australia.
