CSIRO’s Data61 is supporting the Government’s Cyber Security Strategy by developing partnerships between the public and private sectors, supporting home-grown cyber security capabilities and promoting international co-operation.
In its first year of operation, CSIRO’s Data61 has already made significant strides in support of the Government’s Cyber Security Strategy, with more than 70 cyber security research initiatives active across the network of universities, research institutions and government sectors.
The Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Senator Arthur Sinodinos, said the Turnbull Government had identified cyber security as a sector of potential competitive advantage and was working on building a local industry and R&D expertise in the sector.
“Cyber security is a great example of where Australia can build on the strengths we have with some of the best people in the world to undertake cyber security research,” Minister Sinodinos said.
“We have set up the Cyber Security Growth Network. I want us to be the best in the world at cyber security.
“The Americans are good, the Israelis are good, but we want to be the best in the world and build on our strengths.
“CSIRO’s Data61 is helping us capture new opportunities with an innovative and globally competitive sector that is vital for not only our national security but growing our economy.”
Adrian Turner, CEO of Data61, said cyber security must absolutely be at the forefront of the national agenda in this age of digitalisation.
“Our priority is to help create a globally competitive, domestic cyber security sector, and we’re committed to continue driving the momentum that’s built through our team, network partnerships and R&D projects,” Mr Turner said.
“Cyber security is a core enabler for scaling existing Australian industries and for seeding new ones. It’s a rapidly evolving landscape that will always value new thinking and new approaches.
“We’re confident that by maintaining collaborative efforts in the cyber security sector, Data61 will help catalyse the next phases of the Australian cyber security sector and the digital economy more broadly. Australia has all the ingredients to succeed,” Mr Turner said.
Mr Alastair MacGibbon, Special Adviser to the Prime Minister on Cyber Security, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, agrees Australia has a unique window of opportunity to build momentum around the rapidly growing cyber security challenge.
“We are addressing our cyber security needs as a nation, building the research base, industry and jobs that will underpin a secure digital future,” Mr MacGibbon said.
“The Federal Government has implemented a significant plan to address our cyber security needs and help the nation develop a world-leading position in data research and cyber security capability.
“This can only be achieved by building partnerships and collaboration between government, academia and the private sector. The expertise within CSIRO’s Data61 is exceptional, and their strategy involving networks and collaboration is exactly what’s needed to drive us towards becoming a nation with unparalleled expertise in this vital area,” Mr MacGibbon said.
CSIRO Data61’s cyber strategy is based around the themes of building trustworthy and resilient cyber systems, risk-based cyber approaches and shared awareness, as well as strengthening the human and social dimension of cyber security.
Key Data61 activities addressing the Government’s Cyber Security Strategy this year include:
- Development of Platforms for Open Data (PfOD) to enable data sharing, whilst simultaneously maintaining data privacy and integrity
- Creation of a nationally recognised cyber security curriculum, developed in partnership with the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD)
- Activating the SINET61 network with the SINET61 Sydney Summit drawing in over 200 attendees and The SINET Investment Forum in Melbourne attracting over 50 visitors
- More than 70 research projects have been initiated by CSIRO’s Data61 in collaboration with Australian universities. These projects address topics in key cyber security areas and align with the national Cyber Security Strategy
These initiatives have been supported by a $9.3 million partnership between CSIRO’s Data61 and the Defence Science and Technology Group (DST) to establish collaborative research projects with nine Australian universities around cyber security.
Additional projects building Australia’s cyber security ecosystem include:
- Opening the Victorian Cyber Security and Innovation Centre in Melbourne
- Launch of two blockchain reports for The Federal Treasury to inform the industry of the opportunities, security and privacy risks of blockchain technology, to encourage dialogue between researchers, government and industry
- D61+LIVE 2017 – Australia’s premier data innovation conference, bringing together industry, research institutions, startups and government
* Follow this link for a copy of CSIRO’s Data61 Cybersecurity FY16/17 Year End Update *
The culmination of digital innovation efforts from CSIRO’s Data61’s network will be showcased at D61+LIVE today, with important announcements on cyber security highlighted at the event, including:
- PM&C awards ceremony to announce the winners of the 2017 Cyber Security Challenge Australia
- A keynote address by Craig Davies, CEO of ACSGN, exploring how different sectors are collaborating on innovation and research to move Australia’s cyber security industry into a global leading position
About CSIRO’s Data61
CSIRO’S Data61 is addressing the challenge of how to create Australia and the region’s data-driven future with science and technology by partnering with industry, government and universities globally to deliver economic, societal and environment outcomes. As Australia’s largest digital innovation group, Data61’s capabilities range from cyber security, confidential computing, IoT, robotics, machine learning and analytics, software and programming to behavioural sciences and more. For further information, visit www.data61.csiro.auand @data61news
