Paul Grigson

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation director-general Mike Burgess has shone a light on some of the ways foreign governments may attempt to influence local politicians and members of the Australian intelligence community, including through “human targeting”.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop tried to side-step the latest campaign leak, but noted that appointing the first female secretary of her department would be the kind of milestone that “always draw comment”.

Giving the top job to a former spy chief would upset a lot of Australia’s neighbours, but it’s a distinct possibility. All six have previous ambassadorial experience, but there’s only one woman in the running.