Australian Defence & Security

As a result of the terrorist attack on the United States on 11 September 2001, Australian security standards have become an important issue in both the private and public sectors. Hermes has been built on the expertise of former high profile government operatives with extensive knowledge & understanding of current defence and security issues on an international level.

On 18 March 2003 coalition forces lead by the Unites States, commenced attacks on Iraq in an attempt to liberate Iraq from the existing Government. The actions of the Unites States (US) and her allies have been largely condemned by many Arab nations as well as Governments in France, Indonesia and Germany.

Although the situation in Iraq appears to have stabilised, future terrorist activity may focus upon identified weaknesses and vulnerabilities of the US and the countries allied to it, including Australia. It must be stated that no specific threat has been identified nor has there been any change to the national level of terrorist alert.

Threat Assessment

The consequence of a terrorist attack upon Australian interests is classified to be either major or catastrophic depending on whether there is resultant damage, injuries or loss of life. The level of likelihood of a terrorist attack occurring against Australia is considered Unlikely.

The consequence of terrorist activity against corporations in Australia is major (level 4) or catastrophic (level 5) and the likelihood is unlikely (level D) or rare (level E), consequently the resultant qualitative risk is still High.

The Australian/New Zealand Standard on Risk Management (AS/NZS 4360:1999)