The intelligence analysts role is to identify relationships, expose indicators and filter factual evidence to develop meaningful and usable intelligence assessments. They transform information from a range of sources, both national and international, into reliable insights. Continued learning and development is encouraged as analysts progress through their career.
Defence intelligence analysts help defend Australia and protect its interests. They provide timely and relevant intelligence to senior decision makers – whether Defence Ministers, strategists and policy-makers, or battlefield commanders.
The analysts study and evaluate information from a variety of sources such as satellite surveillance, foreign newspapers and broadcasts, social media and human contacts.
The intelligence supports:
- The planning and conduct of Defence operations, policy and capability development.
- Wider government planning and decision making on Defence and national security issues.
- Whole-of-government strategies, such as countering proliferation and combating terrorism.
- Enhance understanding of the strategic environment.
- Underpin national security and prosperity.
- Inform strategic national and military decisions.
- Report against international counter-terrorism capabilities.
- Monitor and provide warning of health and military trends.
Work level standards
Explore the skill, responsibility and behavioural expectations for Defence intelligence analysis roles.
APS 4 Work standards (PDF, 442.71 KB)
APS 5 Work standards (PDF, 182.42 KB)
APS 6 Work standards (PDF, 543.5 KB)
"Now 10 years into my second career as an intelligence specialist in Defence, I have progressed from being a subject-matter expert to now leading a team of scientific intelligence analysts. During this professional journey I have learned the tradecraft of intelligence, briefed the highest levels of government – including ministers – and been offered many opportunities for engagement with scientists and intelligence professionals both in Australia and internationally."
- Sophie, Science intelligence analyst
"I studied a Bachelor of Science with a physics major and moved to Canberra to join Defence through a graduate program. There are opportunities to transfer within the department and I transferred into the Weapons and Technical Intelligence Branch 4 years ago. Since working in Defence I have had the opportunity to travel domestically and overseas to meet with customers and allied counterparts to discuss and analyse threats to our military and the Australian Government."
- Sam, Technical intelligence analyst
"I have had more opportunities at Defence than I’ve had in any other job. I briefed commanding generals and, as the senior liaison officer, developed and maintained stakeholder relationships. Although deploying to war zones is not easy, I look on both deployments with fondness and have made long‑lasting friends from around the world. As an editor, I ensure the work that analysts write meets Defence's high standards and mandate, and is unambiguous and easy to read."
- Anne, General intelligence analyst