Fed: ASIO says Aust attack possible, OS attacks inevitable

AAP General News (Australia)
02-14-2006
Fed: ASIO says Aust attack possible, OS attacks inevitable

CANBERRA, Feb 14 AAP - A terrorist attack in Australia is possible and overseas attacks
inevitable, a Senate estimates committee has been told.

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) chief Paul O'Sullivan told an
estimates hearing today the agency was well on track to double its staff numbers over
the next five years to deal with both espionage and terrorism.

"That transformation will take place in an environment of heightened threat to Australia
here and abroad, with an attack in Australia possible and further attacks overseas almost
inevitable," Mr O'Sullivan said.

Mr O'Sullivan said the agency was running a major recruitment campaign, which included
targeting people from "a range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds who do not ordinarily
consider applying for a position with ASIO".

AAP pjo/sb/rj/bwl

KEYWORD: TERROR ASIO

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