What does the Australian cyber security strategy mean to you?
Australia is set to become a world leader in cyber security by 2030. In the Australian Cyber Security Strategy, the Australian government plans to invest in several critical ‘cyber shields’ to bolster our nation’s efforts to defend citizens and businesses from malicious attacks – which now occur on average every six minutes.
The seven-year strategy details an ambitious vision for Australia’s cyber landscape. With higher expectations of both government and industry, the strategy drives and stimulates much-needed change.
As a cyber security services provider, here are our key insights into what the Australian cyber security strategy will do for our customers.
Clear Rules Of Engagement
Australia’s cyber security strategy introduces six ‘cyber shields’ to protect businesses and citizens from cyber threats, making the country a tougher target. Working with industry, the government will enhance these shields and build national resilience. Kinetic IT’s PROTECT+ aligns with this vision, ensuring customers receive the right cyber security services. Law enforcement, led by the Australian Federal Police, will ramp up efforts against cybercrime, supported by international cooperation and a new ransomware playbook to help businesses prepare for and recover from attacks.
RELATED CONTENT: How to choose the best passphrases and password managers
Thriving Economies, Equipped Citizens
Recognising the urgency to stay ahead of advancing threats, Australia’s cyber security strategy calls for significant changes to safeguard citizens and businesses. With the digital economy expected to hit $56.7 billion annually by 2030, the strategy prioritises some of the following initiatives:
- Small Business Cyber Security Resilience Service, supported by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), offers free tailored advice and victim support.
- Cyber health checks for small to medium businesses via the Department of Home Affairs.
- National security awareness campaigns to engage diverse communities, including remote and regional communities, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, First Nations communities, seniors, and people with disabilities.
The strategy also focuses on proactive defence through education, training, and six cyber shields to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber-attacks and build resilience across all sectors.
More Domestic Business, More Significant Employment Opportunities
One standout feature of the strategy’s cyber shields is Shield 5, which focuses on ‘sovereign capabilities’—prioritizing cyber security operations within Australia. This is excellent news for Australian-owned businesses and clients needing local data retention. It will boost Australia’s technical expertise and protect sensitive information. As cyber security evolves, building a skilled, diverse workforce is crucial. The industry’s support for new pathways for experienced professionals to enter Australia highlights the importance of talent development to the strategy’s success.
Australian Cyber Security Strategy: How Will We Know We’ve Succeeded?
The real test of the strategy’s success lies in its execution, with the first horizon pivotal. The 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Action Plan outlines key deliverables over the first two years, setting the foundation for future success. While collaboration between government and industry has historically been challenging, introducing the cross-industry Executive Cyber Council has shown promise.
The sector now seeks more details on activities aligned with each horizon and a more precise roadmap for collaboration, as Australia aims to become a global leader in cyber security by 2030. Kinetic IT PROTECT+ is committed to supporting this vision through innovation and adaptability.
Find out more about our cyber security services.
RELATED CONTENT: 3 ways to overcome the cyber skills shortage in Australia
