Persons of interest: the ASIO files explores the recently declassified dossiers of people whose every move was once closely watched by Australia's foremost intelligence agency. Previously secret intelligence files, photographs and films will be on display for the first time along with unique surveillance tools used by ASIO agents. Documentary footage shows the very personal reactions of some of these persons of interest as they explain firsthand how their idealism and beliefs were misconstrued by ASIO as something far more sinister.
 
ASIO was set up in 1949 to combat a Soviet spy ring operating in Australia, a serious threat to our national security. However, during the 1950s and 60s ASIO shifted its focus to target groups and individuals it considered subversive, including the Communist Party of Australia, various feminist groups and those involved in the anti-apartheid movement. ASIO has been quietly following, recording and photographing persons of interest for more than 60 years. The resultant files are dark biographies documenting a secret history of Sydney where spies lurked among unsuspecting citizens.