Mandatory Ransomware Payment Reporting Now Active in Australia

From 30 May 2025, Australian businesses meeting specific turnover thresholds must report ransomware or cyber extortion payments within 72 hours under the Cyber Security Act 2024. This new regime aims to enhance national cybersecurity by tracking cybercriminal activity and improving threat response strategies. Who Must Report? Businesses with an annual turnover of $3 million or more in the last financial year …

Australian Signal Directorate Releases Best Practices to Secure AI systems

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning systems rely heavily on high-quality, secure data to function accurately. However, without proper safeguards, these systems are vulnerable to data breaches, manipulation, and corruption. A recent Cybersecurity Information Sheet (CSI) co-authored by the National Security Agency (NSA), CISA, FBI, and international cybersecurity agencies outlines critical best practices for securing AI data throughout its …

NSW to Introduce New Laws for Identity Security

The New South Wales government has introduced new legislation to strengthen protections for residents at risk of identity fraud. The Identity Protection and Recovery Bill, announced by the Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, establishes critical measures to combat the misuse of stolen or compromised identity documents. Under the bill, a new fraud check …

Australia and India Negotiate Bilateral Cybercrime Treaty to Counter Rising Threats

Australia and India are advancing discussions on a landmark bilateral treaty aimed at strengthening cybersecurity cooperation, as both nations grapple with escalating cyber threats. The proposed agreement would facilitate real-time data sharing and faster responses to cross-border cyberattacks, addressing gaps in existing legal frameworks. Brendan Dowling, Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technologies, confirmed …

2025 AI Deployment and Governance Survey Report

The rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across industries has created significant opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and competitive advantage. However, as highlighted in the 2025 AI Deployment and Governance Survey, organisations must implement strong governance frameworks to mitigate risks and ensure ethical, compliant, and effective AI use. Key Challenges in AI Deployment The survey emphasises …

Protecting Consumer Privacy in a Data-Driven Industry

The retail sector is increasingly reliant on customer data to personalise services, improve marketing, and enhance sales. However, as highlighted by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), this trend comes with significant privacy risks. Retailers collect vast amounts of personal information from purchase histories to payment details, making them prime targets for cyber …

Federal Court Releases AI Transparency Statement

The Federal Court of Australia has released a clear and measured statement on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in court processes, reflecting both the potential benefits and risks of emerging technologies. While AI tools like chatbots and text generators can enhance efficiency, the Court emphasises that their use must align with legal and ethical …

Key Insights from the Parliamentary Report on the Future of Work

A recent parliamentary report, The Future of Work, examines the evolving nature of employment in Australia, driven by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and global economic changes. The report highlights both opportunities and challenges, urging policymakers to adopt proactive measures to ensure workforce resilience. Technological Disruption and Automation Automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming industries, …

Australian Information Commissioner Urges Government Agencies to Strengthen Messaging App Policies

The Australian Information Commissioner has called on government agencies to improve information governance when using messaging apps, ensuring compliance with legislative obligations. A recent review of 22 agencies revealed that while messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp are widely used for official communications, many lack adequate policies addressing privacy, freedom of information (FOI), and recordkeeping …

Australia Releases Updated 5G Security Guidance to Mitigate Risks

The Australian Government has released updated guidance to help telecommunications providers manage security risks associated with 5G networks. This document expands on the 2018 5G Security Guidance while maintaining the government’s existing policy position. It aims to assist critical telecommunications assets—previously known as carriers and nominated service providers—in meeting their regulatory obligations under the Security …