Although Australian politicians always spoke publicly of loyalty to Britain and the empire, in secret they immediately set about protecting Australia's interests from the Germans, the Japanese—and Britain itself. John Fahey knows how the security services disguise their activities within government files. He has compiled the first account of Australia's intelligence operations from Federation to the end of World War II. This book shows Australia has been a far savvier operator in international affairs than much of the historical record suggests, and it offers a glimpse into the secret history of the nation.