Australia seeks national unity in cybersecurity strategy
The Tech Council of Australia is working alongside industry and government leaders to advocate for a national approach to enhance the country's cybersecurity capabilities.
The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) has been a driving force behind a recent event that gathered various stakeholders including major corporations, start-ups, and the research sector to address the nation's evolving cyber threat landscape. This concerted effort aims to speed up the development of sovereign cybersecurity solutions, build scale, and fortify Australia's resilience against digital threats.
TCA's Chief Executive Officer, Damian Kassabgi, spoke at the Australian Cyber Exchange 2025 (ACE 25), highlighting the importance of uniting different sectors to bolster Australia's cyber defences. "This collaboration is a critical step to ensure industry and government are taking a coordinated approach to building Australia's cybersecurity and resilience. It also highlighted the key role of emerging innovators and start-ups in addressing the challenges faced by large corporations, as they bring agility and fresh perspectives to the table," Mr Kassabgi remarked.
He continued, "By building connections and sharing intelligence and perspectives, Australian innovators and the research ecosystem can develop tailored solutions that enhance the resilience and growth of big corporations, while also driving their own success."
Nicola Nicol, Chief Security Officer at CommBank, underscored the significance of partnership in tackling cyber threats: "In this rapidly evolving landscape, collaboration is crucial. Government, industry, and emerging innovators must work as one to stay ahead of cyber threats."
Ms Nicol further stated, "As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, CBA remains committed to investing in innovation and fostering the collaboration needed to keep building sovereign cybersecurity capabilities and safeguard Australia's digital economy with a more self-reliant cyber ecosystem."
The initiative brought a spotlight on Australian start-ups, with 26 of them receiving the opportunity to present their cybersecurity solutions. Jack Reis, Group CEO of Baidam Solutions, expressed his thoughts: "At Baidam, we see our role in building sovereign capability as twofold — delivering world-class cybersecurity solutions tailored to Australia's unique threat landscape, and empowering vulnerable communities and First Nations communities to lead in this critical sector. ACE25 represents a pivotal opportunity to demonstrate that Indigenous-owned businesses can not only protect Australia's digital borders but also shape its cyber future."
Pieter Danhieux, CEO and founder of Secure Code Warrior, described the collaboration as transformative for Australia's start-up scene. "Cybersecurity is a fundamental pillar of our national security, and Australian enterprises, not to mention the government, have a key role to play in safeguarding consumer data from threat actors and Nation-State attacks," Danhieux noted.
He added, "The inaugural Australian Cyber Exchange is an incredible initiative, and together with the Tech Council of Australia, The Group of Eight (Go8), and Commonwealth Bank, we are very proud to be part of this event showcasing the wealth of cyber talent and innovation present in the Australian landscape today. It is our hope that the industry continues to thrive and is supported to grow well into the future."
Telstra's Global Chief Information Security Officer, Narelle Devine, emphasised the importance of cross-industry collaboration in strengthening cybersecurity: "Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that requires a united front. ACE25 provides a unique platform for government, industry, and innovators to come together, share insights, and develop robust solutions to help protect our digital landscape. This forum underscores the power of collaboration in driving forward our national cybersecurity capabilities."
