Intelligence agencies ultimately act in our interest and work for 'us' through the government of the day. ASIO is another agency within the public service.

As Poly rightly stated, the established order whatever that may be usually dictates what is defined by sedition - generally in the West where democracy prevails (in the broad sense) attempts to overthrow a government by force would be sedition.

The most time consuming focus in the present day is that of terrorism (ie. acts of politically motivated violence).

The world is what it is and ASIO works to protect its government and its citizens along with the AFP, DIGO, DIO, ASIS and DSD who all play a role.

I am not sure why it has become a national sport to invent conspiracy theories about intelligence agencies. This does not mean of course, that intelligence agencies should have limitless powers and in Australia they don't for the most part. Although the new terrorism legislation was completely unnecessary given our more than adequate conspiracy laws.

It is the politicians who might make use of the intelligence agencies for their own political gain that is of more concern.

It concerns me that on issues of significance that these "agencies" do not seem to have the spine to speak contrary to the politicians.

Case in point - East Timor.

Now, "we" knew well in advance that war criminals from Jakarta were going to issue spiteful orders of mass slaughter.

We could have saved a lot of people, but the agencies aquiesced to howard and his child abusing mates, constituting in my view a form of corruption.

Quote the Bad Vorlon:
" ... !FAILED! ... "

And now, as of last time I was in Jawa, u get to see a mega huge poster of wiranto upon arrival. Now what in the world makes u think that the likes of Amrozi will ever respect life if u do not speak out openly against the butchers who run the place?

I am in favor of a conscience vote available at all times for all our executive personell.

And if they're too chicken to stand and b counted when it counts most, then I agree with Bush Turkey, in that they don't deserve to have *Raptors*

In our darkest hour, may the Light within burn bright enough to save our friends and families from themSelves.

...Adam...

"Does ASIO australian secret intelligence organistion work for the public, government or big business/"

Yes.