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Part 2: A warning from an undercover ASIO informant

Aug 6, 2025 •

When ASIO’s spy chief Mike Burgess delivered his annual threat assessment earlier this year, it was widely seen as a recruitment drive.

He talked about the crucial role of human intelligence in ASIO's work – and sang the praises of the people who make huge sacrifices, in secret, to keep Australians safe.

But while Burgess insisted informants collecting intelligence for ASIO are valued, ABC investigative reporter Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop has revealed a different side to this dangerous work.

Today, the reality of working with ASIO – and what can happen when you leave.

This is part two of a two-part episode.

If you haven’t yet, go back and listen to Part 1: The spiritual leader of Sydney’s pro-ISIS network.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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Part 2: A warning from an undercover ASIO informant

1632 • Aug 6, 2025

Part 2: A warning from an undercover ASIO informant

When ASIO’s spy chief Mike Burgess delivered his annual threat assessment earlier this year, it was widely seen as a recruitment drive.

He talked about the crucial role of human intelligence in ASIO's work – and sang the praises of the people who make huge sacrifices, in secret, to keep Australians safe.

But while Burgess insisted informants collecting intelligence for ASIO are valued, ABC investigative reporter Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop has revealed a different side to this dangerous work.

Today, the reality of working with ASIO – and what can happen when you leave.

This is part two of a two-part episode.

If you haven’t yet, go back and listen to Part 1: The spiritual leader of Sydney’s pro-ISIS network.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Guest: Investigative reporter for the ABC Sean Rubinsztein-Dunlop

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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.

It’s made by Atticus Bastow, Cheyne Anderson, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Ruby Jones, Sarah McVeigh, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.

Our theme music is by Ned Beckley and Josh Hogan of Envelope Audio.





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1632: Part 2: A warning from an undercover ASIO informant