Foreign Interference and Collaboration

Foreign interference (FI) refers to activities conducted by or on behalf of foreign actors that are coercive, deceptive, or corrupting and undermine Australia’s sovereignty, values, and national interests.

Examples may include efforts to manipulate UNE’s research agenda or improper attempts to access sensitive information from students and staff. Foreign interference may involve covert funding of research to align outcomes with foreign objectives or attempts to exploit collaborations to obtain confidential data. Other signs of interference include unusual requests for information, pressure to alter research findings, or offers of gifts or incentives to influence staff.

UNE mitigates these risks by implementing robust cybersecurity measures, conducting due diligence on international collaborations, and providing training to staff and students. In addition, the University’s Foreign Interference and Compliance Committee   meets regularly to ensure risk mitigation strategies are appropriate and that UNE operates in alignment with relevant government guidelines related to foreign interference. If your work involves international partnerships or sensitive research, you must disclose potential risks and comply with UNE’s foreign interference policies to ensure the integrity of your work.

If you have any questions related to foreign interference, would like to raise a related concern or report non-compliance, contact the Research Governance and Compliance Officer at foreignrelations@une.edu.au or on 02 6773 1093.