Defence Security and Vetting Service

The Defence Security Division (DSD) (formerly the Defence Security and Vetting Service (DSVS) and the Defence Security Authority (DSA)) within the Australian Government’s Department of Defence plays a crucial role in maintaining national security. It is the Australian equivalent of the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).

Its primary responsibilities include protective security services, security threat and risk assessments, investigating protective security breaches and manages the Defence Industry Security Program. DSD also delivers security clearances for Defence, the Government, and industry through the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA).

Additionally, the DSD contributes to broader national security outcomes by managing the Defence Security Principles Framework, which helps decision-makers understand and manage evolving security risks effectively.

Functions

The Defence Security Division monitors:

• Investigations into major national security breaches (including the theft of seven rocket launches in 2007)
• Performance and risks
• Reports on security compliance
• Grants on security clearances for Defence and Defence Industry Security Program members
• Conducts clearance revalidations and re-evaluations
• Develops and promulgates security policy that complies with Australian Government protective security policy and
• Meets Defence's needs and assisting Groups and the Services with security policy implementation.

See also

• Holsworthy Barracks terror plot
• Defense Security Service
• Direction de la Protection et de la Sécurité de la Défense

External links

• Defence Security Authority
• Open Australia Search: Parliamentary records mentioning 'defence security authority'.