Russian-Born Couple in Australia Arrested for Allegedly Spying for Russia

Two Australian citizens of Russian origin have been accused of acquiring Australian Defence Force materials with the intention of sharing them with Russian authorities.

Australian Federal Police arrested Kira Korolev, aged 40 and an Australian Defense Force army private, along with 62-year-old Igor Korolev at their residence in Everton Park, Brisbane, on July 11, reports Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

The married couple faces charges of preparing for an espionage offence, punishable by up to 15 years' imprisonment.

Having lived in Australia for over a decade, the Korolevs allegedly sought information with the intent to provide it to Russian authorities. Whether the information was actually shared remains under investigation.

Mr. Korolev's charge sheet indicates he had maintained relationships with members or associates of Russian intelligence services for the purpose of sharing information. During separate court appearances, neither Mr. nor Ms. Korolev applied for bail, with their cases adjourned until September 20.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been “briefed extensively” by Australian security agencies on the matter, refraining from further comment except to commend their diligent work.

Further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation progresses, potentially including the more severe offence of espionage, which requires direct evidence linking the accused to a foreign state and carries penalties ranging from 25 years to life imprisonment.

Australian Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw emphasized the potential impact on Australia's sovereignty, safety, and way of life, while spy chief Mike Burgess underscored that espionage case was harming Australia's national security.

Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, commented: "I think it clearly shows that we are up against, right now, not just the physical contest that we are seeing in Russia's war of Ukraine."