National Terrorism Threat Level FAQs

Why has the level changed?

The National Terrorism Threat Level is regularly reviewed and updated in line with the security environment.
The lowering of the threat level reflects the maturity of Australia’s counter-terrorism frameworks, laws and resourcing.
The lowering of the threat level does not mean the threat from terrorism has ceased and does not mean the operational tempo of our security agencies will reduce.

The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) independently determines the threat level.
The Director-General of Security sets the threat level on the basis of rigorous ASIO assessment.

While you should continue to be vigilant, you should also have more confidence to go about your life. In fact, for most of us the change in threat level will have no practical impact on our lives.
Australia’s law enforcement & security agencies are among the best in the world and continue to do everything within their powers to keep the community safe.
Much of the counter-terrorism work our intelligence and law enforcement agencies do to protect Australians isn’t visible to the wider community.
All Australians have a role to play in making sure Australia continues to be a safe place to visit and live.
You can continue to play your role by reporting any suspicious activities to assist our security and law enforcement agencies to identify potential threats and prevent them from developing.