How can Australia take a whole of society approach to cybersecurity?

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In a speech late last year Home Affairs and Cyber Security Minister Clare O’Neil outlined a broad cyber security strategy for Australia that would see the country become the most cybersecure country in the world by 2030, and;

“Bring the whole nation into the fight to
protect our citizens and economy”.

 

Minister unveils cybersecurity strategy with a panel of experts; global success suggests a holistic societal approach.

Denmark, cyber-secure since 2019 per Comparitech, faced a wake-up call in 2017 when hackers targeted security forces. This spurred renewed government efforts against cyber threats.

Denmark enhances cyber capabilities with measures, including two-factor verification. “My Digital Self-Defense” app empowers users by alerting real-time threats.

Prioritize a cost-effective, collaborative Australian Cyber Security Centre platform for rapid dissemination of cyber threat advice, alerts, and information.

Australians adopting a cutting-edge cybersecurity app, akin to the Danish version, is crucial to preempt new threats, prevent scams, and educate the populace.

Urgent: Severe shortage of cybersecurity experts jeopardizes the Minister’s 2030 goals. Pluralsight’s 2022 study highlights a global skill gap; Australia faces a 30,000 professional shortfall in four years.

Subsidized cyber security education in the UK yields high ROI through skilled graduates entering well-paid jobs; consider accelerated visas for international students.

Governments must promptly invest in cybersecurity and computer literacy, following examples of the UK, US, and Israel, fostering education and free courses, starting from kindergarten.

Empowering the next generation of Australian cybersecurity experts starts with early education. NSW pioneers a cybersecurity course for secondary students in 2023—an essential model for nationwide adoption.

In 2022, the government aspires to be “the world’s most cyber-secure country by 2030”. The wake-up call demands immediate, bold, and transformative actions from both business and government to avoid sleepwalking into future cyber threats in 2023 and beyond.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is not intended to amount to legal advice. Professional assistance may be required to determine the most appropriate action to protect your legal rights.