About Us

The Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO) was established in 1990 as the Australian Government's source of expertise for matters relating to global security, weapons of mass destruction, foreign military capabilities, defence economics and transnational terrorism, as described in our mandate.

DIO provides timely and relevant intelligence to senior decision-makers – whether Defence Minister, government policy-maker or battlefield commander. The intelligence and advice we provide supports the planning and conduct of ADF operations, defence capability and policy development, and wider government planning and decision-making on Defence and national security issues. We also provide specialist advice to support whole-of-government strategies, such as countering proliferation and combating terrorism.

To achieve this mission, we provide timely and independent intelligence assessments on countries and foreign organisations relevant to Australia's security and strategic environment. This includes military capabilities, weapons systems, cyber threats and defence-related technologies.

Our work is enhanced through collaboration with the National Intelligence Community and the national intelligence and security agencies of Australia’s allies.