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In response to the growing threat of cybercrime in Australia, government and industry leaders are developing new strategies for advanced cybersecurity that will help protect businesses and individuals from cyberattacks.
This week, Australian Minister for Home Affairs Clare O’Neil announced the government’s plans to improve cyberspace security. This new strategy includes a Cyber Security Strategy to replace the previous government’s lacklustre attempt.
On Wednesday, O’Neil spoke to the National Press Club and said what we all already know.
“History had shown us that during periods of intense global competition, Australia was only really affected security-wise when we got involved in a conflict. Today, however, new tools of statecraft are causing what would be otherwise seen as global security issues to become part and parcel of our citizens’ everyday lives,” she said.
“The effects of cybercrime are far-reaching and impact every sphere of our lives, from the economy to our relationships. Businesses and research organisations are especially vulnerable to attacks, with Australia’s hard-won innovations constantly at risk of being stolen.”
“Not only does this impact our democracy, but it also feels like foreign actors constantly try to influence decisions in institutions such as parliament and universities. Additionally, Australians are subjected to online campaigns that spread false information like viruses throughout our communities.”
“It’s simple: the results are stark when you put it all together.”
So how does O’Neil plan to stomp out this thriving problem she called “relentless”?
O’Neil said Australia would “punch back at the hackers” by collaborating with the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Signals Directorate. This is in response to the former government’s smart decision to eliminate a cyber minister.
We will form a team of 100 to prevent potential hackers and system breaches. Furthermore, this team will also be responsible for hacking back any individual or group that does manage to hack us successfully.
“It will take some time to get this singing, but when it does, it will revolutionise the way Australia views cyber,” she said.
Furthermore, the recent amendments to the Privacy Act see penalties for data breaches increase from $2.2 million to a maximum of $50 million or 30% of the organisation’s revenue.
“I have always dreamed of Australia being the world’s most cyber-secure country, and I know it is possible. We need to start from scratch and establish a plan to get there,” O’Neil said.
The new Cyber Security Strategy will allow the government to protect citizens and businesses, reinforce infrastructure and networks, develop cybersecurity skills domestically, and deepen Australia’s engagement with other nations.
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