ASD stories

The origins of the Australian Signals Directorate trace back to the Second World War, where Australian ingenuity helped shape the course of history. After the war, in 1947, Australia’s wartime signals intelligence capability transitioned into a peacetime signals intelligence organisation headquartered in Albert Park, Melbourne.

Explore the stories that continue to inspire our mission today.

ASD decoded

Codewords are used to protect sensitive information, such as projects and capabilities.
Explore the unique stories of codewords through the years.

Manual cipher device with a grid in the centre with words in each cell and sliding rulers along the top and side.
Manual cipher device with a grid in the centre with words in each cell and sliding rulers along the top and side.

ASD declassified

ASD’s declassification program releases archived holdings into the public domain to encourage a greater understanding of the nature of our activities.

Malayan Emergency - SGT Jock Richardson and platoon exiting truck - AWM HOB/56/0749/MC
Malayan Emergency - SGT Jock Richardson and platoon exiting truck - AWM HOB/56/0749/MC