This book sheds light on the complex and controversial realm of Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs) and their impact on international security. The rise of PMSCs as key participants in the security arena has sparked debates worldwide, challenging the traditional monopoly on violence held by nation-states. Structured meticulously, Chapter One introduces the rise of PMSCs, focusing on Australia as a case study for their effect on state control and accountability. Chapter Two examines historical PMSC development and case studies, revealing global implications for regulation and oversight. Chapter Three builds a theoretical framework for analyzing the Australian case, and Chapters Four and Five scrutinize Australia's government and PMSC industry, uncovering deficiencies in regulatory mechanisms and human rights abuses. In Chapter Six, implications on security outsourcing and regulation are explored, culminating in a thought-provoking conclusion in Chapter Seven. This book is a crucial resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by PMSCs in the realm of international security. Natalie McLean is a Research Fellow at the Sir Lawrence Wackett Centre for Defence at RMIT University and has extensive experience within Defence and Strategic Studies sectors.

She has authored and co-authored a number of peer-reviewed academic journal articles spanning security studies and privatized military studies. Natalie researches at the nexus of issues concerning civil-military relations and international security.