The director-general, through ASIO, has overall responsibility for the protection of the country and its citizens from espionage, sabotage (especially sabotage of critical infrastructure), politically motivated violence, attacks on the Australian defence system, terrorism and acts of foreign interference.

The director-general of security is often regarded as Australia's 'top spy', even though they may not have been previously engaged in intelligence upon appointment.

[2] The incumbent director-general is Mike Burgess, appointed on 16 September 2019.

The director-general is appointed by the governor-general on the advice of the prime minister and holds office under the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979.

[3] The normal term of appointment is limited to seven years, although the director-general is eligible for reappointment.