Working with national security agencies
Our meteorological and environmental information supports government agencies as they make decisions about Australia's national security. For example, when deploying defence units, planning operations triggered by climate change, or managing severe weather risks in Southeast Asia or the Pacific.
We work with national security agencies to keep Australia safe
Department of Defence
In defence planning and operations, knowing the weather is as important as knowing the terrain.
We provide specialised weather, water, climate, ocean and space weather advice to the Department of Defence. This gives them the environmental information they need to plan and conduct operations – at sea, on land, in the air and in space.
At military bases around Australia, we provide tailored meteorological services. This includes for Joint Operations Command and at Royal Australian Air Force bases. These services encompass weather observations, forecasts, warnings, advisories and briefings. This supports safe and efficient operations.
Weather and climate can have national security implications overseas. For example, water scarcity or food insecurity leading to instability. Understanding when to expect these impacts helps Defence plan. We provide climate security information to assist this planning.
We brief pilots and train Defence personnel in meteorology
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Australia's national security depends on stability and prosperity in our region.
The Asia-Pacific is the most disaster-prone region in the world. About 90% of these disasters are weather related. Regional leaders recognise climate change as the greatest threat to the livelihoods, security and wellbeing of people living in the Pacific.
We work with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to identify where our weather, water, ocean, climate and space weather capabilities can help the region manage these risks.
For more information about how we support developing countries in the Indo-Pacific region, view our Indo-Pacific development page.
Department of Home Affairs
Weather and climate conditions affect many Department of Home Affairs' responsibilities. For example, transport security, immigration and border protection. Our products and services can help to inform the Department's decisions.
The National Emergency Management Agency is part of this department. It coordinates the Australian Government support in response to disasters and emergencies. These can affect national security because they can lead to political, economic and social instability.
To find out how we work with the National Emergency Management Agency and other emergency services, view our Emergency management page.