Seeing the unseen: why geospatial intelligence is important

Seeing the unseen: why geospatial intelligence is important

Author: ANU National Security College November 6, 2025 Duration: 41:57

What are the origins of the Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO), and how has the organisation developed within the National Intelligence Community? 

How does AGO contribute to the broader remit of Australian statecraft, the work done by other NIC agencies, and the Five Eyes partnership? 

What makes innovation in the geospatial intelligence space key to building resilience? 

 

In this episode Kathryn McMullan joins Sally Bulkeley to discuss the importance of geospatial intelligence, how it contributes to statecraft, and how the AGO works with other partners to enhance national security and resilience. 

 

Kathryn McMullan is the Director of AGO. 

Sally Bulkeley is Deputy Head of the ANU National Security College. 

 

TRANSCRIPT 


Show Notes:  

AGO | National Intelligence Community 

Five Eyes wide shut: now is the wrong time to pause in shaping Australia’s intelligence agencies


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Produced by the ANU National Security College, The National Security Podcast offers a deep and nuanced examination of the forces shaping regional and global stability. This isn't just a surface-level news recap; it's a forum for serious, informed discussion grounded in academic rigor and policy expertise. Each episode features conversations with leading thinkers, practitioners, and analysts who unpack the complex security landscape, from geopolitical shifts and economic coercion to cyber threats and climate-related risks. The focus is consistently on the pressing challenges and strategic choices confronting Australia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Listeners will gain access to a range of perspectives that cut through the noise, providing clarity on how today's decisions shape tomorrow's security environment. By engaging with this podcast, you join a conversation that is both timely and essential, one that connects theoretical understanding with the practical realities of government and international affairs. The dialogue here is built on evidence and experience, offering listeners a trusted source to better comprehend the intricate dynamics of power, diplomacy, and defense. It's an ongoing exploration of what security means in a rapidly changing world, delivered through thoughtful, long-form discussions that prioritize depth and insight.
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