Skip to main content
Defence News
  • Home
  • National
  • International
  • Capability
  • Technology
  • Industry
  • People
  • Navy
  • Army
  • Air Force
  1. Home
  2. Response to Skynet reporting

Response to Skynet reporting

16 March 2015

On Sunday 15 March and Monday March 16, 2015, a number of news outlets broadcast or published items regarding an unauthorised file-sharing network, known as Skynet, that existed at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in 2009. Skynet used the University of NSW network system, without the University’s knowledge at the time. Skynet served a functional purpose to support information sharing, but it became apparent that inappropriate material was also being passed.

The unauthorised file-sharing network was referred to the Australian Defence Force Investigative Service in 2009 and subsequently to the Australian Federal Police. Their investigations revealed that the inappropriate material distributed via the unauthorised network was not illegal and the matter was passed back to ADFA. The network was closed down in 2009, the hardware seized and the operators of the network faced disciplinary action under the Defence Force Discipline Act. In February 2013, Defence implemented an official communication system, known as the ADFA Cadet Intranet (ACI). This system is used by staff and cadets to share official information, and is monitored by system administrators and ADFA staff.

Defence takes complaints and allegations of unacceptable behaviour very seriously. Defence personnel are advised that all Defence information and communication technology, including computer networks, are monitored to detect any inappropriate behaviour. Disciplinary action will be taken where breaches are identified and may result in termination of employment.

Defence has maintained its position on this matter. As additional information has come to light, it has been provided to support subsequent enquiries.

Media contacts

Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence, 
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946 

Other On the record content

Statement - AIR 7003

Statement - Secretary and Chief of Defence Force test positive for COVID-19

Statement - Defence response to The Australian article

Chinese ship lasing of P-8A Poseidon on 17 February 2022

Statement from Chief of Air Force – Flying Hours for the F-35A Lightning ll

Subscribe to our RSS Feed

  • Media releases
  • Stories
  • Transcripts
  • On-the-record list

© Copyright / Defence News

All rights reserved

Defending Australia and its National Interests Small shape of Australia with tagline
  • Contact us
  • Copyright
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy