Australian critical infrastructure at risk of 'high impact sabotage'

November 16, 2025

Mike Burgess of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation has warned of an imminent threat to Australia's critical infrastructure from cyber-enabled sabotage over the next five years. This statement highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures in vital sectors to mitigate potential risks.

In a recent statement, Mike Burgess, the head of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), warned of a looming threat to Australia's critical infrastructure due to the rise of cyber-enabled sabotage anticipated over the next five years. This chilling prediction underscores the urgency for safeguarding vital sectors such as energy, water, and communication against potential cyber threats. With growing interconnectivity, the vulnerabilities related to infrastructure systems have magnified, attracting the attention of various threat actors who may exploit them for malicious purposes. With nations evolving their cyber capabilities, the risk of state-sponsored cyber operations targeting essential services escalates, risking widespread disruption. Burgess insists that organizations must bolster their defenses to mitigate risks associated with cyber threats, making it imperative for businesses and infrastructure operators to implement robust cybersecurity measures and comply with evolving security frameworks. ASIO's insights align with broader geopolitical concerns, as nations may leverage cyber warfare as a tool for sabotage against geopolitical adversaries. The implications of such attacks could lead to significant financial losses and a potential breach of public trust in essential services, tightening the nexus between cybersecurity and national security. As the issue gained traction, stakeholders, including government and private sectors, have been urged to collaborate more closely to thwart these risks effectively, aiming for a proactive approach toward defense and incident recovery strategies.