Chinese spies ‘very active’ in Australia, departing defence secretary warns, by the ABC.

The departing Secretary of Defence Dennis Richardson has accused China of spying and exerting “unreasonable” influence over Chinese communities and media in Australia.

In a farewell speech to the National Press Club, the one-time ASIO boss has argued Australia should build relations with China, but cautioned there are complexities.

“It is no secret that China is very active in intelligence activities directed against us — and it is more than cyber,” Mr Richardson said. …

“The Chinese Government keeps a watchful eye inside Australian Chinese communities and effectively controls some Chinese language media in Australia.”