Security concerns have not done much to stop the proliferation of Chinese-made drones in government departments. 

Government departments and Commonwealth agencies in Australia possess thousands of DJI drones and related accessories, despite concerns regarding their security implications. 

Shadow Cyber Security Minister James Paterson has raised multiple questions regarding Chinese-made technology used in government departments, including Hikvision cameras, TikTok on government devices, and now DJI drones. 

The absence of a formal government audit has prompted concerns about the potential risks associated with these devices.

DJI, a Chinese company, was blacklisted by the United States in October 2022 due to national security concerns and its links to China's military. 

Additionally, the company has faced accusations of assisting state surveillance of Uyghur people in Xinjiang province.

Commonwealth agencies revealed to Senator Paterson that they possess a total of 3,116 DJI internet-connected drones or DJI accessories that are not capable of connecting to the internet. 

The CSIRO holds more than half of these devices, mainly for research purposes. Other agencies such as the Australian Federal Police and Services Australia confirmed owning drone devices but did not disclose the exact numbers.

Defence confirmed ownership of approximately 450 drone devices but stated that they had been grounded following a “cease use” order issued in May. 

Similar orders have been given to border agents, and the Australian Federal Police stated that they are in the process of transitioning away from using DJI drones.

Various departments and Commonwealth-funded agencies, including Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Climate Change and Energy Department, the ABC, Home Affairs, and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, also hold DJI assets.

Senator Paterson has called for an immediate grounding of the drones and the establishment of an office within Home Affairs to assess security threats originating from high-risk technology sourced from authoritarian countries. 

In response, Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil has stated that the previous government had the opportunity to implement measures to mitigate technology threats during its nine-year tenure. 

She highlighted the commitment of the Australian government to ensuring the safety of its citizens and the ongoing assessment of technology security policy settings.

The Australian Border Force (ABF) is the latest agency under pressure to ground its fleet of DJI drones. 

The ABF has acquired 41 DJI drones since 2017 and is currently conducting trials to enhance operational capabilities. Despite calls for banning DJI drones, the ABF has not committed to such action, stating that it adheres to strict cybersecurity measures.

The Australian Federal Police says it has already begun transitioning away from using DJI drones, as stated by Deputy Commissioner Ian McCartney during an Estimates Hearing last month.