Intelligence and Policy Analyst - Career Advice - Government and Defence

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Intelligence Officer
Surveillance Officer

Intelligence analysts gather, analyse, or evaluate classified and unclassified information from a variety of sources, such as law enforcement databases, surveillance, intelligence networks or geographic information systems. FutureGrowthModerate

Intelligence analysts evaluate information from a variety of classified and unclassified sources. This information is often incomplete, contradictory and can vary widely in terms of reliability.

Depending on their background and qualifications, an intelligence analyst may examine a diverse set of countries, issues (such as terrorism) and cultures.

Intelligence analysts working for the Department of Defence specialise in a number of areas depending on their training, qualifications and agency employment.

Intelligence Policy Analyst
(Source: UWA - Careers Intelligence Analyst)

ANZSCO ID & Description: 2244: Develops and analyses policies guiding the design, implementation and modification of government or commercial operations and programs.

Alternative names: Intelligence Analyst, Analyst, Technical Analyst, Scientific Analyst,

Specialisations: Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Defence Intelligence Analyst, Research and Evaluation Analyst (NZ)

Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO) Intelligence Analyst - examines information derived from imagery collected by a range of sensors and platforms, including satellites and aircraft. Technical intelligence analysts use specialist skills to conduct detailed analysis of sensor information or the development of exploitation and portrayal tools and services.
Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) Intelligence Analyst - undertakes sophisticated analysis producing vital intelligence and security information for the Australian Government, performing activities such as analysis of foreign signals, intelligence reporting, communications analysis, foreign language translation, or solving cryptological problems using advanced mathematical concepts.
Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO) Intelligence Analyst - provides strategic intelligence assessments to senior members of government, including the Defence Minister, as well as government policy makers and senior Defence staff. This work covers critical issues including support to military operations, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, regional security, foreign military capabilities and weapons systems, cyber threats and defence- related technologies.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Employers look for Intelligence and Policy Analysts who have strong attention to detail, can communicate clearly with a wide variety of people and can work well in a team.

excellent research, analytical and problem-solving skills
to be able to pass a security clearance
excellent written and oral communication skills
ability to work individually and as part of a team
an understanding of political history and systems
ability to cope with the demands of working in a high pressure, classified environment
to be fair, balanced and unbiassed in their professional recommendations
Australian citizenship

Intelligence Analyst
(Source: Your Career)

Duties and Tasks

Intelligence analysts may perform the following tasks:

validate known intelligence with data from other sources
gather, analyse, correlate, or evaluate information from a variety of resources to make intelligence assessments
prepare comprehensive written reports, presentations, maps, or charts based on research, collection, and analysis of intelligence data
study activities relating to a range of potential security threats
communicate closely with representatives from other government and intelligence organisations to share information or coordinate intelligence activities.
prepare intelligence reports and briefs to inform senior government officials
translate foreign language material
communicate and cooperate closely with both military and civilian organisations

Working Conditions

As an intelligence analyst you would usually work standard hours. You may need to work extra hours on some projects, and sometimes at very short notice.

Intelligence analysts work for the Government in agencies such as the Department of Defence, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS). Most of the graduate positions available in these organisations are based in Canberra.

You would be based in an office, but you would also need to travel to attend meetings. You are likely to need a full drivers' licence and use of a vehicle. You would also be required to undergo a security clearance.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become an intelligence analyst you usually have to complete a degree in arts, science, commerce, information technology, engineering or a related field. To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Most universities in Australia offer relevant degrees.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study.

Additional Information

Entry into graduate programs with the Department of Defence will require applicants to undergo security clearance. The level of clearance will depend on the graduate program.

Employment Opportunities

Graduate positions with the Department of Defence are based in Canberra, with limited positions also available in Bendigo. Recruitment is conducted Australia-wide with applications opening in February each year. Positions may also be available with other agencies, including the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS).

Employment of intelligence analysts is expected to show small growth.

Employment is dependent on government funding but may opportunities may become available as a result of increases in organised crime or terrorism threats.

Did You Know?

An Australian Intelligence Corps (Aust Int Corps), Intelligence Officer (Int Officer) is an Army Officer who has been commissioned to Aust Int Corps on graduation from the Royal Military College Duntroon (RMC-D); or a Commissioned Officer from any corps who has been assessed as suitable for training and transfer to Aust Int Corps.

The role of Aust Int Corps is to provide the intelligence support required by commanders and staff at all levels. The intelligence operating environment is dynamic and complex, requiring the highest levels of mental agility and flexibility. It requires the ability to operate at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and to integrate with joint, inter-agency, inter-governmental and multinational agencies. This environment also demands culturally astute and situationally aware leaders, comfortable in dealing with unpredictable circumstances. An Int Officer may also be employed as a manager of intelligence specific disciplines such as Human Intelligence (HUMINT), Imagery Intelligence (IMINT), and Signals Intelligence (SIGINT).

Army Intel Officer

Emma Grigson deployed to Afghanistan with the Australian Army as a Medical Officer,
and then continued to serve as an Intelligence Officer.
(Source: Life on the Line)

An Int Officer serves in units and headquarters (HQ) at every level - tactical, operational and strategic, either individually or as part of a small team. In this role they can be employed in a wide variety of workplaces, including functional HQ or non-intelligence corps units at all levels including battle groups, company, combat team and squadron sized organisations. Int Officers also serve within Special Forces and Regional Force Surveillance Units, as well as training units, and domestic and overseas representational roles. Int Officers may be posted to the national intelligence agencies including the Defence Intelligence Organisation (DIO), the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) and the Australian Geospatial Intelligence

Organisation (AGO). Employment locations include Perth, Darwin, Townsville, Brisbane, Canungra, Sydney, Canberra, and remote regions such as the Pilbara and Cairns, and selected foreign countries.

If you are commissioned into the Australian Intelligence Corps on graduation from RMC-D you will be required to undergo three years regimental training in another Corps. This period of regimental training is designed to further enhance the military and leadership skills you have learnt at RMC-D and provide valuable experience in the wider Army before you undertake your formal training as an Int Officer.
(Source: Defence Jobs)

Intelligence officers collect a range of information that assists in maintaining Australia's national security, and investigate major crimes. They are responsible for counter-terrorism, counter-espionage, counter-proliferation, and the detection and prevention of serious organised crime in Australia. They collect information on the activities of a range of individuals and organisations that are of interest to the Australian government. This data informs the government's capacity to make decisions regarding Australia's security, foreign relations and economic wellbeing. FutureGrowthModerate

ANZSCO ID: 224411

Alternative names: Spy [James Bond], "Spook"

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Suits people who can see patterns in information, have close attention to detail and skills in observation and problem solving. Strengths in communication, analysis and relationship building, and knowledge of politics, law and government are important.

Intelligence officers need to have:

knowledge of national and international politics
knowledge of research methods
knowledge of relevant legislation
strong analytical skills, with the ability to see patterns in information
good relationship building skills
skill in observation and problem solving
good time management.

Intelligence Officer
(Source: Your Career)

Duties and Tasks

respond to organisational and client intelligence requirements
collect data and information; apply for evidence such as electronic surveillance records
decode data, statements, recordings and images then collate and analyse
compile intelligence information using briefings, maps, charts, reports and other methods
research the accuracy of data collected and ensure the reliability of sources
conduct threat and risk assessments and develop responses to identified risks
provide reports to businesses or governments on how to contain or manage threats.

Working Conditions

Intelligence officers either work for the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) in Australia, or for the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) overseas. They work in offices, but also undertake information-gathering activities in a range of other circumstances. They may be involved in dangerous situations, and may come into contact with criminals or other dangerous individuals or groups. Intelligence officers working for ASIO must be prepared to relocate to Canberra, while those working for ASIS must be prepared to relocate overseas.

Some personal risk can be expected when gathering evidence or information. Long or irregular hours and long periods away from home can be expected.

Tools and technologies

Intelligence officers use computers, and in particular word processing and data management software. They may also be required to operate audiovisual surveillance equipment.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become an intelligence officer, you usually need to study a degree at university.

Additional Information

You must also be an Australian citizen, undergo a security assessment to obtain a high level Security Clearance, and hold a current driver's license.

Employment Opportunities

Entry into graduate programs with the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, the Australian Secret Intelligence Service, or the Department of Defence will require applicants to move to Canberra or Bendigo for training.

Did You Know?

Cryptography wasn’t always as complex as the algorithms we use today. The Spartans of ancient Greece used it to send secret messages during battles, using a device called a scytale.
(Source: NSW Dept of Education)

See Activities to create your own Scytale

Surveillance officers are on the front lines of law enforcement. They monitor and record activity in public places, such as businesses, schools, or city streets. Their job is to observe and document any suspicious behavior that may be indicative of a crime taking place.

Surveillance officers must have excellent attention to detail and an ability to remain calm under pressure.

Being a Surveillance Officer is both a profession and a lifestyle commitment. Surveillance Officers are highly competent specialists who adapt to their surroundings to covertly achieve their task. They operate as part of a cohesive operational team within a high-tempo and challenging security environment, following targets both on foot and with a range of supporting vehicles.

They play a critical role in helping intelligence organisations identify, investigate and provide advice on threats to security. Intelligence organisations have a diverse range of individuals who can blend into a variety of operating environments, reflecting the broad social and cultural diversity of the Australian population.

ANZSCO ID: 224411

Specialisations: Gaming Surveillance Officer,

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Hold a current Class C driver's licence, open and unrestricted, and be eligible to qualify for a driver’s licence in any state or territory in Australia.
Have normal colour perception that enables clear delineation between red and green and no issues with night blindness.
Meet fundamental physical and psychological capabilities in order to undertake the Surveillance Officer role safely and effectively. These include
- the ability to maintain high levels of attention, concentration and memory when under pressure,
- to effectively communicate verbally with a wide variety of persons,
- to walk without significant discomfort for several kilometres,
- drive a motor vehicle confidently and competently for extended periods of time in various traffic environments,
- and to sit without significant discomfort for extended periods of time in various environments, including public locations.
be an Australian citizen;
be willing to relocate to Sydney to undertake a six month training program consisting of live-in training as well as on-the-job; and
be assessed as suitable to hold and maintain a Positive Vetting security clearance.
Maintain operational security. You will not be able to discuss your everyday work with others.
Sustain vigilant observation during periods of heightened activity and during periods of extended inactivity.
Respond to operational tasking at very short notice, which may include the necessity to work extended periods and to travel interstate at short notice.
Be capable of spending extended periods (~ 8 hour shift) within a static vehicle, in various weather conditions.
Maintain your health and fitness to a standard that ensures you can operate ‘on foot’ (walking, running and standing) for extended periods, in various weather conditions.

Surveillance Officer
(Source: Illawarra Mercury)

Duties and Tasks

A surveillance officer typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

Performing stakeouts to monitor subjects’ activities or reactions to certain stimuli
Operating monitoring equipment such as closed circuit television cameras or global positioning systems to collect data
Observing individuals in public places or private places where they have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as offices or homes
Identifying suspicious behaviour or people to alert other security personnel or police officers of potential security risks
Collecting evidence of illegal activity or collecting information that may be used as evidence in legal proceedings
Researching potential threats to security including possible methods of attack and identifying possible targets
Conducting internal investigations of employee misconduct or work performance issues
Reporting security breaches or safety hazards to supervisors
Monitoring the activities of guards in real time using computers to help identify any problems that may arise

Working conditions

Surveillance Officers undertake shift work and operate for extended periods both indoors and outdoors. They spend their days sitting in a dark room watching live video feeds from cameras they’re assigned to monitor. This can be a very monotonous job at times, but it’s also one that requires constant vigilance.

Surveillance officers work in a variety of settings, including office buildings, factories, warehouses, parking lots, and other public areas. They may work indoors or outdoors, depending on their assignment. Many surveillance officers work in teams, although some may work alone. The work can be physically demanding, and officers may be required to stand for long periods of time and to walk long distances. They may also be exposed to inclement weather conditions. Surveillance officers typically work 40 hours per week, although they may be required to work overtime, weekends, and holidays.

Tools and technologies

Surveillance Officers achieve results using specialist equipment designed to meet the challenges of the covert operating environment, including high-tech photographic, technical and IT systems. The use of technology in surveillance is a trend that is quickly becoming more popular as it offers many benefits over traditional methods.

One of the main advantages of using technology in surveillance is that it allows for greater efficiency. With the right software, surveillance officers can monitor multiple locations at once and receive alerts when something happens. This allows them to spend less time watching monitors and more time doing other tasks.

Additionally, technology makes it easier to keep tabs on employees and customers. This can be helpful for businesses that want to make sure that their employees are working hard or for law enforcement agencies that want to keep an eye on potential criminals.

Education and training/entrance requirements

A high school diploma is often a minimum requirement for surveillance officers. However, some employers may prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement or a related field.

Most training for this role happens on the job, where new hires learn the specific processes and procedures of their organisation. Training may include shadowing an experienced surveillance officer for a few shifts to learn the basics, and then performing tasks under supervision until they are comfortable enough to work independently.

Employment Opportunities

As businesses become more reliant on technology, the need for cybersecurity professionals will continue to grow. This means that surveillance officers who are able to identify potential threats and protect data will be in high demand.

Surveillance officers can capitalize on this trend by developing skills in cybersecurity. This includes learning how to detect malware and viruses, as well as understanding how hackers operate. In addition, surveillance officers should also focus on keeping company data safe by implementing strong security measures.

As businesses become more reliant on digital data, the need for surveillance officers who can protect that data has increased.

This trend is evident in the increasing popularity of cloud computing, which puts vast amounts of sensitive data in the hands of third-party providers. Surveillance officers can help businesses mitigate this risk by ensuring that the cloud provider follows industry best practices for data protection.

Surveillance officers may advance to positions with more responsibility, such as lead surveillance officer or supervisor. Some may become investigators, working to solve crimes, or loss prevention managers, working to prevent theft in a retail setting. Others may use their experience in surveillance to become private detectives or security consultants.