Philippa Brant Resigns as PM Albanese’s National Security Adviser Amid Heightened Scrutiny

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s national security adviser, Philippa Brant, has resigned from her position as the government continues to manage the aftermath of the worst terrorist attack in Australia’s history. Brant, a Mandarin‑speaking former officer of the Office of National Intelligence with a doctorate focused on China, formally stepped down this week to pursue a new career direction.

Brant’s professional background spans extensive work in foreign policy and national security, including research roles, international development work in Beijing, and contributions to global organisations. She was also the inaugural recipient of the Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Endeavour Award, recognising her early leadership in regional engagement.

According to government sources, her resignation is not connected to the recent terrorist events, nor was her departure abrupt.

Her exit comes at a delicate moment for the government, marking the second senior departure from the prime minister’s advisory ranks in three months. In October, Albanese’s top foreign policy adviser, Kathy Klugman, was appointed the first female Director‑General of the Office of National Intelligence, succeeding Andrew Shearer, who is set to become Australia’s next ambassador to Japan.

Government Under Pressure After Bondi Attack
The prime minister has faced intensifying criticism over his handling of the Bondi terror attack. In response, he defended the government’s actions, pointing to newly passed hate law reforms approved during an overnight parliamentary session. The legislation introduces:

A framework to ban extremist groups that promote hate

Expanded powers for the home affairs minister to cancel visas

Stronger penalties for religious and spiritual leaders who incite violence

Earlier this month, Albanese also announced a royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion, to be led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell, with findings expected by the end of the year.

The prime minister’s office has not issued a comment regarding Brant’s resignation.