Australia's 2023-2030 Cyber Security Strategy boosts digital defences, shifts telecom under critical infrastructure laws, and invests $290.8M in SMEs. It focuses on workforce upskilling, data retention, and resilience against growing cyber threats.
The Australian Government's unveiling of the 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy (ABC) marks a pivotal moment in the nation's approach to digital security. Spearheaded by Security Minister Clare O'Neil, the strategy's release is particularly timely, following the substantial data breaches impacting millions of Optus and Medibank customers and the alarming 23% rise in cybercrime reports over the previous year.
The CNC editorial news review on cyber policy focused on the federal data retention requirements. This review aims to mitigate risks and reduce burdens associated with the prolonged storage of significant data volumes.
The strategy also underscores the expansion of the Digital ID program. This initiative facilitates online verification without excessive personal data sharing, thereby limiting sensitive information exposure for both individuals and entities.
In a significant regulatory shift, telecommunication providers are set to align with other critical infrastructure sectors.
Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil outlined new plans to class telecommunications as ‘critical infrastructure’ for the first time under the Security for Critical Infrastructure Act (SOCI).
This move involves transferring the security regulation of the telecom sector from the Telecommunications Act to the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act
Financially, the strategy is substantial, with nearly half of its funding - $290.8 million - earmarked for small and medium-sized businesses. This investment will support public awareness, combat cybercrime, disrupt the ransomware business model, and enhance the security of Australian identities.
Furthermore, there is a planned investment in establishing consumer standards for smart devices and software. This is coupled with initiatives to professionalise the cyber workforce and accelerate the cyber industry's growth.
A notable allocation of $9.4 million is dedicated to developing a threat-sharing platform for the health sector, with potential expansion to other fields.
Minister O'Neil emphasised the strategy's critical nature, stating,
“The strategy is bold and ambitious, and it has to be. The last five years have made one thing abundantly clear: we simply can’t continue as we are.”
In an ABC interview with Alastair MacGibbon, Chief Strategy Officer at Cyber CX, the strategic implications of the ABC were further explored. MacGibbon emphasised the resolution of the Australian labour force shortage and the necessity for both domestic training programs and international talent recruitment to enhance cyber capabilities.
"Upskilling is crucial. We must leverage existing skill sets and strategically augment them to address this widespread issue. It's about changing the narrative around our country’s ability to tackle cyber threats effectively.”
- MacGibbon highlighted.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of talent distribution and increased training opportunities, stating, "We're committed to finding the right people over three years. If other companies, like Microsoft and others, join in training people, it would significantly boost our capabilities."
The sentiment resonates across various layers within the cybersecurity services industry.
Mark Mantakoul, General Manager at Zirilio, provides valuable insight into the resilience challenges faced by Australia’s cybersecurity workforce.
Zirilio's general manager emphasises the need for increased attention from federal governments to support business services with adaptive policies, thereby enhancing the future talent pool.
“By prioritising the development of cyber skills, the strategy intelligently addresses the often-overlooked human element in cybersecurity, ensuring a well-equipped workforce ready for future challenges.”
– Mr. Mantakoul reaffirmed.
Mantakoul underscores the paramount importance of National experts in cybersecurity acquiring the skills necessary to deliver first-response services.
The 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy, thus, represents a comprehensive and forward-looking approach, aiming to fortify Australia’s cyber defences in an increasingly digitised world.
NSW is set to unveil its Innovation Blueprint, with a proposed state VC fund to bridge private investment gaps. As Victoria invests billions in innovation, NSW risks falling behind. A well-structured fund could boost startups, attract talent, and strengthen Australia’s global tech standing.
Late last week, an extraordinary announcement signaled a dramatic shift in U.S. cybersecurity policy: the Trump administration deprioritized Russia as a leading cyber threat. Experts fear downplaying Moscow’s aggression could expose American networks to new risks and undermine national security.
Since early 2022, the British government has tied Iran to over 20 plots threatening UK citizens, reflecting Tehran’s expanding covert tactics. These attempts—spanning assassination, kidnapping, and surveillance—mark a significant escalation on British soil.
Tech giants face AI disruption and trade tensions as Trump’s tariffs hit supply chains. Nvidia’s lead is challenged by DeepSeek, while Alphabet’s earnings reflect shifts. With rising costs and geopolitical risks, the Magnificent Seven must adapt to stay competitive in an evolving tech landscape.
