How is terrorism assessed?

The Government employs a five grade alert system regarding any possible terror attacks:

• Low - an attack is unlikely;
• Moderate - an attack is possible, but not likely;
• Substantial - an attack is a strong possibility;
• Severe - an attack is highly likely; and
• Critical - an attack is expected imminently

A terrorist attack could occur anywhere using a variety of means. The terrorist strategy is to generate fear and prevent or disrupt us from going about our ordinary lives and business. In reality attacks are rare, but well-reported in the media.