Cybersecurity in Australia – Key Updates
Cybercrime is now part of everyday life in Australia, and it’s getting more serious. The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) recently released its Annual Cyber Threat Report 2023–24, and the recent Cybersecurity statistics numbers are a wake-up call for individuals, families, and small businesses.
Key Cybersecurity Statistics at a Glance
- Over 87,400 cybercrime reports were filed, that’s one every 6 minutes.
- $30,700 average loss per cybercrime for individuals (up 17% from the previous year).
- $49,600 average loss per cybercrime for small businesses (up 8%).
- Over 36,700 calls were made to the Cyber Security Hotline, a 12% year-on-year increase.
Government Action
In response to rising threats, the Australian Government has taken several major steps to improve the country’s cyber resilience:
Cyber Security Strategy (2023–2030)
- A $565 million investment over 7 years.
- Focus on hardening critical infrastructure, supporting businesses, and uplifting the cybersecurity workforce.
Read more about the Strategy from HERE.
National Cyber Security Coordinator
A dedicated role established in 2023 to lead cyber incident response and policy coordination across all government levels.
Lieutenant General Michelle McGuinness was appointed on February 26, 2024 as a Coordinator.
Uplifting Federal Agencies
- Government entities are now required to implement Essential Eight cyber mitigation strategies to at least Maturity Level 2.
- Emphasis on regular testing of incident response plans
If you need help with Essential 8, check HERE.
Public Engagement & Reporting
- Expansion of ReportCyber to make cybercrime reporting easier
- Ongoing community education and collaboration with industry partners
Click HERE to report a cybercrime, incident or vulnerability.
Australia is making clear strides in its cybersecurity posture, but the growing number of incidents shows there’s no room for complacency. The government is investing heavily in infrastructure, strategy, and public education, a necessary move in an increasingly digital and high-risk world.
Read the full Annual Cyber Threat Report 2023–24 from HERE.