Defence Security and Vetting Service

The Defence Security Division (DSD) (formerly the Defence Security and Vetting Service (DSVS) and the Defence Security Authority (DSA)) is a security agency within the Australian Government, and plays a crucial role in maintaining national security. DSD agents closely collaborate with their U.S equivalent; the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).

The DSD is part of Australia's National Security Community, along with the Department of Defence (including Defence Security), Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), Australian Secret Intelligence Service, Australian Federal Police, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Defence Intelligence Organisation, Australian Signals Directorate, Office of National Intelligence, Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation and the Australian Defence Force.

The DSD is headed by Australia's Chief Security Officer (CSO), and is the primary counterintelligence agency for Defence security in Australia. The current incumbent is First Assistant Secretary, Mr Peter West.

DSD operates under the Defence Legislation Amendment Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets Act 2024, empowering DSD agents with dedicated Defence-specific espionage legislation.

DSD's primary responsibility is the provision of protective security and counterintelligence services to the Australian Government. DSD is responsible services to government. DSD also provides outreach security and cybersecurity services, the provision of security threat and risk assessments, investigating protective security breaches and manages the Defence Industry Security Program (DISP).

DSD agents are embedded within ASIO for closer collaboration on matters pertaining to Defence-specific espionage and Top Secret Privileged Access security clearances. DSD is the parent agency of the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).

DSD agents are accredited Australian Government investigators, consistent with their U.S DCSA Special Agent counterparts. DSD agents are required to complete the Diploma of Government (Security) and the Certificate IV in Government (Investigation) or the Diploma of Government (Investigation).

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