Is Australia a potential terrorist target?
Every country, including Australia, is a potential terrorist target. The level of national counter-terrorism alert is currently Medium. Security and intelligence agencies constantly monitor all available information. If there is a change in the assessed level of threat to Australia the Australian Government will advise you through the news media.

How long will Australia be on heightened security alert?
It is likely that we will be living with increased security for the foreseeable future. Australia moved to a four-level system of national counter-terrorism alert in June 2003. The four-levels are Low, Medium, High and Extreme levels.

What is being done to protect Australia from terrorism?

• National security and law enforcement agencies, including ASIS, ASIO the Australian Federal Police and the Defence Forces, have been significantly upgraded. A full list of National Security Agencies and their responsibilities is available
• A National Counter-Terrorism Plan is in place, detailing how Australian, state and territory governments' and national security agencies work together to detect, prevent and respond to terrorism.

How will I be kept informed?

• The Australian Government will keep all Australians informed about what is being done to protect Australia and the current alert level through public statements on news media, including television, radio, newspapers and the internet.
• Try to watch, listen to or read the news every day and keep an eye out for essential information.
• In an emergency situation, the Government will make public statements through news media so try to watch your television or listen to your radio for information.

Should I stay away from shopping centres, sporting events or change my holiday plans?

• There is no reason for any of us to stay away from public places or change our normal routines or domestic holiday plans, other than to allow additional time for increased security checking.
• It is essential that we do not allow the threat of terrorism to change the way of life we value so highly.
• If the Australian Government receives credible information that there are places in Australia you should stay away from, you will be officially advised through the news media and relevant authorities.

What should I do if travelling overseas?

• If travelling overseas, it is essential that you keep yourself informed of the security status of the countries you are visiting.
• The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade can give you the up-to-date security status for more than 120 countries before you leave Australia. These and other tips to help you prepare for your overseas holiday can be found at www.smartraveller.gov.au. You can also access this information while you are away.
• The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also has a registration service for Australians overseas to make it easier to contact you in an emergency.

How likely is a chemical, biological or radiological attack by terrorists?

• The current advice from official intelligence services is that the likelihood of this kind of terrorist attack in Australia is low.
• Health authorities and emergency services have detailed plans in place to deal with a situation and treat those affected.
• In a chemical, biological or radiological incident, the most important thing to remember is to minimise your exposure, then watch your television or listen to your radio and wait for emergency services to tell you what to do.
• Stockpiles of antibiotics, vaccines, anti-viral drugs and chemical antidotes are in place.
• The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing has health advice and more information about how Australia is prepared for health emergencies.

What can I do to protect myself and others at work?

• Make sure you are familiar with the emergency and evacuation plans for your workplace. If you are unsure, ask your supervisor.
• Attend an accredited first aid course.
• If you run a business or manage a large building, review your security measures. You should also review your emergency and evacuation plans. Rehearse them, update if necessary, and make sure every member of your staff knows what to do.
• Keep a careful check on garages and underground car parks so that you know whose vehicles are on your premises.
• If you have security cameras, make sure they are working properly, check that the time and date are correct, and retain the tapes in case they might be of use to police later.

What if my children become concerned or anxious about terrorism?

• Talk with your children about what is happening and what is being done to protect them. Encourage them to say how they feel.
• Be honest about things being discussed in the media and in your community.
• If anyone in your family becomes anxious to a point where it starts interfering with daily life, consult a health professional.