Security Assessments only consider factors related to ‘security’ [as defined in the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979].
Security Assessments are not character checks and factors such as criminal history, dishonesty or deceit are only relevant to ASIO’s advice if they have a bearing on security considerations.
Security Assessments can range from a check of personal details against ASIO’s intelligence holdings, to an in-depth intelligence investigation to determine the nature and extent of an identified threat to Australia’s national security. Security Assessments are handled on a case-by-case basis.
When we did 100 per cent, we probably did 85 full assessments that we did not need to do out of every 100 … In the circumstances, I would submit that that triaging process is the most effective and efficient way of enabling the greatest resources to be applied to the greatest potential risk.
Given the large volume of visa applications, it is not practicable for each one to be assessed by ASIO. A risk-managed referral framework has been developed so that applications more likely to be of concern are drawn to ASIO’s attention.
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