The Australian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, has unveiled its groundbreaking 2023–2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy action plan, designed to propel the nation towards becoming the world’s most cyber-secure country.

About the implementation of a robust cybersecurity framework in safeguarding business and individuals, Webber Insurance Services Managing Director, Chris Webber, says:

“It’s an important step to take by the government to protect individuals and small businesses, as well as educating everyone on the risks they face and how to avoid issues.”

The plan, which is divided into three key “horizons”, will span the seven-year period between 2023 and 2030.

Horizon 1 – Strengthen our Foundations (2023–2025)

The first stage of the strategy is the only phase explicitly detailed in the action plan at this time and will comprise six core “shields” that form the initial goals of the Albanese government.

During this initial phase, the government aims to fortify the nation’s cyber defences by addressing critical gaps, enhancing protections for vulnerable citizens and businesses, and fostering cyber maturity across the region.

Shield 1 – Strong Businesses and Citizens

The first shield will strengthen the cyber capabilities of the Australian population by introducing ways in which individuals and organisations can defend themselves by strengthening their cyber stance.

This will involve offering free cyber health checks to organisations and working with industry to enable them to better deal with ransomware attacks.

Shield 2 – Safe Technology

Trustworthy and safe technology is fundamental. Under the second shield, the government will introduce international security standards for consumer-grade smart devices and actively contribute to a voluntary cyber code of practice for developers.

It will also address the safe use of new technologies within Australia through regulatory frameworks.

Shield 3 – World-Class Threat Sharing and Blocking

Collaboration is key, with shield 3 encouraging Australian organisations to collaborate and share cyber-threat information.

The goal? An economy-wide threat of intelligence network, allowing information to be shared at a much more accelerated rate.

The government also aims to establish next-generation threat-blocking capabilities by working with industry professionals and providing incentives for organisations that adopt these.

Shield 4 – Protected Critical Infrastructure

With the increasing threat of digitally connected cities being subject to ransom and the take down of power, water or healthcare services, the government will move to better secure such infrastructure.

That will be addressed in shield 4, with a focus on redefining certain industries and strengthening the security obligations of critical infrastructure operators. This will also work to strengthen government security and pressure test the nation’s critical infrastructure, to ensure it remains secure.

Shield 5 – Sovereign Capabilities

One of the main factors limiting Australia’s cyber capabilities is the cyber skills gap. As a result, responses to cyber attacks are slower and rushed.

Shield 5 plans to aid this by attracting skilled migrants and providing funding to accelerate the development of cyber start-ups and small businesses.

Shield 6 – Sovereign Capabilities

The sixth and final shield will see the government improve its international collaboration and relations with other national cyber agencies.

Additionally, it intends to endorse global standards promoting transparent and responsible technological advancement while affirming its commitment to uphold international legislation concerning the state of cyber security.

A Cyber-Secure Future

For the remainder of 2023 and beyond, Webber Insurance Services will continue to actively support businesses and individuals in enhancing their cyber stance, offering tailored coverage and risk management strategies while supporting the government’s strategy.

Together, we can navigate the evolving cyber landscape and build a more secure digital future for Australia.

If you have any questions or would like more information on cyber insurance solutions or risk management tips, please contact our team.