Session 2.7f Update: Ensuring Adequate Cyber Security for Australia's Defence Industry: A Critical Examination (Virtual)
Tracks
| Wednesday, November 15, 2023 |
| 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
| Fitzroy Theatre |
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In the modern digital era, where interconnectedness and technology permeate every facet of our lives, the defence industry stands as a prime target for malicious cyber threats. The significance of robust cyber security within this critical sector cannot be overstated.
Australia’s defence industry forms the backbone of a nation's security, encompassing a complex network of government agencies, private contractors, manufacturers, and research institutions. Its operations involve the development of cutting-edge weaponry, advanced communication systems, and strategic intelligence. Any breach or compromise within this domain could have catastrophic consequences, endangering national security, compromising military readiness, and potentially causing economic turmoil.
Cyber security is paramount in safeguarding sensitive defence information, trade secrets, proprietary technologies, and classified data. Sophisticated adversaries, ranging from state-sponsored actors to cybercriminal organisations, relentlessly seek to exploit vulnerabilities within the defence industrial base. They aim to steal intellectual property, disrupt critical infrastructure, and undermine operational effectiveness.
Australia has implemented measures aimed at enhancing the security of its defence industry. Yet, in light of the emergence of the AUKUS pact and the dynamic changes in the geopolitical landscape, it becomes pertinent to inquire: Do our current endeavours hold up under scrutiny? Should they prove inadequate, the need to identify opportunities for improvement becomes paramount.
This presentation will critically examine the cyber security regulations and frameworks applicable to Australia's defence industy. Drawing inspiration from international best practice, this presentation will make a series of recommendations with the intention of strengthening our cyber security preparedness and ultimately bolstering our national defence.
Speaker/s
Ms Sarah Sloan
Head Of Government Affairs And Public Policy
Palo Alto Networks
Sarah Sloan is the Head of Government Affairs & Public Policy for Australia and New Zealand at Palo Alto Networks. She advises the company’s leadership on a range of cyber and technology policy/regulatory issues, builds strategic relationships across all tiers of government and acts as a trusted private sector adviser to governments in the region. Prior to her roles in the private sector, Sarah has spent 10+ years working in the Federal Government, predominantly in cyber crime and cyber security. She has a proven track record of delivering results at the operational and strategic levels of government and is passionate about improving Australia and New Zealand’s cyber security posture. Sarah is inaugural Chair of the Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) Cyber Security Policy Advisory Network.
