The Territory Labor Government is investing in protecting Territory businesses from the growing risks of cybercrime and growing skills in the Northern Territory.
Minister for Corporate and Information Services, Lauren Moss announced today a A$700,000 agreement with Charles Darwin University (CDU) to jointly fund a new Associate Professorship in Cyber Security, for the next five years commencing in 2018.
“This investment is about supporting local business from a growing risk,” Ms. Moss said.
“We need to make sure we have the local knowledge and talent to keep the hard earned income of local Territory business safe from cyber criminals and other digital threats.
“This is a significant development for the Territory in protecting Territory businesses, creating jobs, developing our own and providing future opportunities for our children.”
Head of the School of Engineering and IT at CDU, Mr. Friso De Boer welcomed the agreement.
“This important investment will enable local students to study this highly sought after skill locally here at CDU, which means meeting local demand with local talent, a win-win situation,” he said.
CDU will also offer three new cybersecurity-related courses next year: the Graduate Diploma of IT Cyber Security, the Graduate Certificate of IT Cyber Security and the Master of IT Cyber Security.
As part of efforts to better cyber protect local businesses, the Territory Labor Government is also delivering Cyber Security for Your Business presentations across the Territory and holding the inaugural October Cyber Security month.
Last year, Australian Cyber Security Centre survey found 90% of businesses nation-wide had faced some form of cyber security compromise during 2015/16.
“Cybercrime can affect any business, no matter how small the enterprise, and it is important that business owners have the tools to recognise the threats and avoid being the next victim,” Ms. Moss said.
Sharmila Pakiaraja, Branch Chair, Australian Information Security Association, said:
“The NT Government should be commended for its efforts in stepping up against cyber threats. Investing in CDU Cyber Security, holding October Cyber Security Month for local business, and establishing the Office of Digital Government are really exciting initiatives.”
Last week, the NT Government announced Ms. Sandie Matthews’ appointment as the new head of the Office of Digital Government. One of her first few jobs will be working on the finalisation and implementation of the Digital Strategy for the Northern Territory.
