Australian Defence Force (ADF) bases remain vulnerable to security breaches despite multi-billion-dollar contracts awarded to private security firms, according to insiders and security experts. The issue has come into sharper focus following a recent incident at RAAF Base Darwin, where an unarmed man reportedly assaulted a service member and stole a military vehicle before being apprehended by Northern Territory Police.
Security contractors responsible for protecting key Defence installations are reportedly unarmed while on patrol. Defence sources indicate that both contracted guards and military police are generally without weapons during routine duties, with authorization to carry arms granted only in specific circumstances. This protection strategy forms part of contracts valued at over A$2.5 billion, awarded in recent years.
Contract tenders reveal that Wilson Security, owned by a Hong Kong-based conglomerate, secured close to A$1.5 billion, while Indian-owned MSS Security was awarded contracts worth around A$1.1 billion. Despite the financial magnitude, whistleblowers inside Defence describe current security provisions as regressive, with “fewer and fewer personnel” permitted access to firearms necessary to safeguard critical assets.
Former Australian Federal Police Detective Superintendent David Craig criticized the government's approach, labeling it “asleep at the wheel” given the persistent threat to Defence personnel and infrastructure. Referencing counter-terrorism operations dating back to 2006, he emphasized that Defence facilities remain prime targets for terrorist activity. “It is appalling to have paid billions for security personnel who are effectively powerless while on duty,” Craig said.
Counter-terrorism expert John Coyne also highlighted the disparity between the evolving threat landscape and static physical security measures at Defence sites. According to Coyne, security protocols have failed to adapt to the increasing sophistication and frequency of threats, leaving Defence installations inadequately protected.
The recent security incident at RAAF Base Darwin occurred amid a reported A$160 million program aimed at upgrading security infrastructure. However, apparent vulnerabilities persist. Additionally, drone incursions represent a growing concern; official reports indicate that 147 drone breaches over restricted airspace above Defence facilities were recorded in the past year. Defence bases such as Williamtown have experienced multiple drone violations within short periods, raising alarms about airspace security.
Since December's Bondi massacre, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has reportedly disrupted four major terrorism plots targeting Defence assets, underscoring the ongoing risk landscape faced by the ADF.
The Department of Defence and Defence Minister Richard Marles declined to comment on questions regarding current security arrangements. Meanwhile, calls are growing from within Defence circles and expert communities for substantial enhancements to the protection of ADF personnel and facilities in line with assessed threat levels.