Government appoints new Director-General of ASD

The Australian Government has announced the appointment of Abigail Bradshaw as the new Director-General of the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), effective 6 September.

Ms Bradshaw is currently Deputy Director-General ASD and has been Head of ASD's Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) since March 2020.

Bradshaw brings experience in cybersecurity, intelligence and Australia's national security, including roles in the Royal Australian Navy, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Department of Home Affairs and Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

"Abigail Bradshaw's experience in cyber, national security, crisis management and incident response uniquely equips her to lead the Australian Signals Directorate as it continues to defend Australia against global threats and advance our nation's interests,” said Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence. "As Head of ASD's Australian Cyber Security Centre, Ms Bradshaw has strengthened relationships with cybersecurity leaders and private network owners in Australia and internationally, including our Five Eyes partners.”

Outgoing Director-General Rachel Noble oversaw the growth of the Australian Cyber Security Centre, enabling it to better protect Australian businesses and community, and continued improvements to Australia’s offensive cyber and signals intelligence capabilities.

"I would like to thank Rachel Noble for her leadership and foresight, which has seen ASD significantly expand its cyber and intelligence capabilities over recent years, including under the REDSPICE program, and I wish her well into the future,” said Marles.

"It is an absolute privilege to be appointed as the next Director-General of the Australian Signals Directorate,” said Bradshaw. “I look forward to leading the incredible mission-focused team at ASD as we continue to advance Australia’s national interests.

"ASD’s focus will remain steadfast on continuing our proud history of support to the Australian Defence Force, collecting foreign signals intelligence, conducting cyber offensive operations and protecting Australians from cyber threats."

A new head of ASD's ACSC will be appointed in due course.

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