Disaffected Chinese officials are closely watching how Australia deals with defector Wang Liqiang, with others weighing up whether to follow his path, an analyst says.

Questions are swirling about Mr Wang’s account of his life as a Chinese spy, and the federal government’s response to his plea for asylum could influence others who might bring their secrets to Australia, said Australian Strategic Policy Institute researcher Alex Joske.

"He has indirect value to Australia because the way Australia handles this case will be closely watched by others within the Chinese government who may have an interest in defecting," he said.

Security agencies have confirmed they are examining Mr Wang’s background and his request for asylum after The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald revealed his story last weekend in an investigation with 60 Minutes.