Cybersecurity training shifts focus to cut breach costs in 2024

Cyber awareness and training are being positioned as a fundamental aspect of business strategy in response to a rapidly growing landscape of digital threats.

Cyber risks have escalated in frequency and complexity, with a substantial portion of incidents attributed to human error or lack of awareness. Recent studies indicate that nearly 90% of cyber incidents arise from these factors, resulting in consequences such as financial losses, damage to organisational reputation, and potential regulatory breaches.

Rising incidents

Reports from the Australian Cyber Security Centre detail a 62% rise in ransomware attacks in 2024, with small and medium-sized enterprises frequently targeted. This data underscores the vulnerabilities that untrained staff can introduce, highlighting the necessity of regular, comprehensive cyber education for all employees.

"Cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented pace. From phishing scams and ransomware attacks to insider threats and social engineering, malicious actors exploit human vulnerabilities as much as technical flaws. According to recent studies, near 90% of cyber incidents stem from human error or lack of awareness. The consequences are severe: financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties."

The business implications are significant, given the increasing reliance on digital systems and the corresponding expansion of the attack surface. The focus has shifted from simply deploying technical controls to empowering employees as vigilant participants in organisational security.

Training imperatives

Effective cybersecurity training is moving beyond annual compliance requirements. Programmes that are being implemented aim to enable employees to recognise threats, adopt best practices, respond effectively to incidents, and maintain a security-first mindset.

Organisations are designing training that goes beyond generic modules to focus on industry-specific risks, aligning content with operational workflows to enhance engagement and relevance. Simulation exercises, such as phishing tests, and gamified learning experiences are being used to improve employee retention and practical application.

"Effective cybersecurity training goes beyond annual compliance checkboxes. It empowers employees to:

• Recognise Threats: Teach staff to identify phishing emails, malicious links, and social engineering tactics.
• Follow Best Practises: Reinforce password hygiene, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and secure data handling.
• Respond to Incidents: Equip teams with protocols for reporting suspicious activity promptly.
• Cultivate a Security-First Mindset: Foster accountability at all organisational levels."

Continual reinforcement is also seen as critical, with frequent updates, case studies and refresher courses helping to ensure ongoing readiness for emerging risks. Leadership involvement is a further key component, as executive engagement is said to bolster a culture that prioritises information security across the business.

"A well-trained workforce acts as a force multiplier, reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall security posture."

Adapting to change

The recent shift toward remote working, combined with increasing adoption of cloud-based services, means that training must now account for the unique risks posed by distributed teams. New methods such as virtual and augmented reality simulations are being trialled to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical threat response. These immersive options aim to provide realistic experience in managing cyber incidents.

Artificial intelligence is also appearing in training platforms, analysing user engagement to tailor modules and address specific knowledge gaps. This approach is intended to maintain workforce skills in line with the evolving threat environment.

"As technology continues to advance, new trends are shaping the future of cybersecurity training. The increasing use of remote work and cloud-based services requires a recalibration of training programs to address the unique challenges of distributed teams. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are emerging as innovative tools for simulation-based learning, filling the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, realistic threat scenarios. These immersive technologies can create dynamic training environments that mirror real-life cyber incidents.

Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) is being leveraged to analyse training efficacy and adapt learning modules in real time. By tracking user interactions and engagement, AI-driven platforms can identify knowledge gaps and offer personalised reinforcement. This level of customisation not only improves the overall learning experience but also ensures that employees remain up to date with the latest cybersecurity practices."

Organisations are increasingly adopting continuous learning frameworks, embedding security updates, assessments and active feedback channels into daily operations to keep all employees, from entry-level staff to leadership, engaged in maintaining vigilance against threats.

Return on investment

Training in cybersecurity is viewed as delivering measurable organisational benefits. The average cost of a data breach in Australia now exceeds AUD $3 million, according to IBM. Proactive training programmes are described as a means to reduce these costs significantly, by minimising incident frequency and severity.

Compliance with regulatory frameworks - such as ISO 27001, GDPR, and the Australian Privacy Act - is another driver for sustained investment in employee training, in addition to maintaining trust with clients and business partners.

"Investing in training yields measurable returns:

• Reduced Breach Costs: The average cost of a data breach in Australia exceeds AUD $3 million (IBM, 2025). Proactive training slashes incident response expenses.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meet obligations under standards like ISO 27001, GDPR, and the Australian Privacy Act.
• Enhanced Reputation: Clients and partners trust organisations that prioritise security."

Provider perspective

"At Borderless Cyber Solutions, we understand that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Our comprehensive cyber awareness and training programs are designed to equip your team with the knowledge and skills to combat modern threats."

Services being offered in the sector typically include industry-specific modules, phishing simulations, compliance support, and ongoing education through workshops and regular updates, with an emphasis on customising approaches to suit differing organisational needs.