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Defence to look at security 'gap' claims

Follows claims that thousands of security clearances were falsified

The Defence Department says it will look into whistleblower claims that thousands of security clearances have been falsified.

Three workers formerly contracted to the Defence Security Authority say they regularly faked information, like addresses or previous workplaces, on security documents.

Janice Weightman, Owen Laikum and Monica Bennett-Ryan say they were told to do so because of pressure to clear a big backlog of applications.

They now fear the shortcuts in processing could have led to huge gaps in security at Australia's military bases and embassies.

"It's very likely that there are a number of people who have slipped through the vetting process because (of) so much fabrication," Weightman told ABC television on Monday.

A spokesman from defence minister, Stephen Smith's, office said the department took the allegations very seriously.

But he said: "Defence has advised that there is no evidence to suggest that security clearances have been compromised."

"Defence has in place a rigorous vetting and quality assurance process," he added in a statement.

"Any allegations of fabrication of information in security clearances will be investigated by the Inspector-General of Defence."

He noted that the whistleblower trio had previously raised claims of bullying and harassment at their old workplace.

Those claims were investigated and dismissed following investigations that wrapped up in October last year.

Join the CIO Australia group on LinkedIn. The group is open to CIOs, IT Directors, COOs, CTOs and senior IT managers.

More about: ABC, ABC, Defence Department

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