ACS welcomes Federal Government’s 2020 Cyber Security Strategy

6 August 2020 – For immediate release

ACS, the professional association for Australia’s technology sector, has welcomed the release of the Federal government’s 2020 Cyber Security Strategy today.

The $1.67b investment to build new cybersecurity capabilities while strengthening the protection of Australians, businesses and critical infrastructure from the most sophisticated threats recognises the critical role IT services play in modern society and the economy.

ACS President, Dr Ian Oppermann, said, “the COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated the key role the ICT profession plays in keeping the Australian economy running. Protecting the community and essential infrastructure is increasingly important.

“Promoting greater collaboration to build Australia’s cyber skills pipeline is an important aspect of the strategy, with the 2019 ACS Digital Pulse reporting a shortfall of over 100,000 skilled IT workers by 2024.

“The recognition that this responsibility goes beyond governments and includes business, industry and the community is also welcomed, particularly the emphasis on raising community awareness towards online threats and educating small to medium business on mitigating risks to their operations.”

In March, ACS released guides for small and medium businesses to secure their operations during the COVID-19 shutdowns and has since launched a resources page to help companies protect their networks and technology infrastructure from malicious actors.

“We congratulate the Australian Government on delivering the 2020 Cyber Security Strategy,” concluded Dr Oppermann. “ACS and Australia’s technology professionals look forward to working with the government to realise the strategy’s objectives and secure the nation’s digital future.”

-ENDS-

Further information

Troy Steer

Director of Corporate Affairs and Public Policy

M – 0417 173 740

E – troy.steer@acs.org.au

About ACS

ACS is the professional association for Australia's technology sector. More than 48,000 ACS members work in business, education, government, and the community. ACS exists to create the environment and provide the opportunities for members and partners to succeed. ACS strives for technology professionals to be recognised as drivers of innovation in our society, relevant across all sectors, and to promote the formulation of effective policies on technology and related matters. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.