OK...it's a mess! Moving on...

Spying on 'friends' is probably considered pure bastardry by ordinary people of any nationality. But, only if you get caught!

That Australia has done both is patently obvious to anyone with half a brain. Despite the smoke-screen about everyone does it, so that makes it 'alright', own up and move on ... before the collateral damage really gets out of hand!

BTW... make sure any demonstration of regret doesn't result in another dose of unintended embarrassment for all concerned.