Assistant Minister for Defence - Launch of new cyber security research centre

The Assistant Minister for Defence, Stuart Robert, today launched a new research centre dedicated to building Australia’s understanding of cyber threats.

Mr Robert said the importance of cyber research could not be underestimated, particularly as attempts to infiltrate networks in the public and private sectors were becoming increasingly sophisticated.

“I am very encouraged to see academia engaging in research on cyber security issues and contributing to the wider efforts to protect Australia from cyber threats that pose a significant challenge to national security,” Mr Robert said.

The University of New South Wales’ (UNSW) Australian Centre for Cyber Security will bring together cyber security researchers whose work will not only contribute to Australia’s national security, but will also benefit Australian industry and individuals.

“The Centre’s research will cover issues such as cyber ethics, law and justice as well as those issues that affect the everyday lives of people and businesses, such as computer and network security,” Mr Robert said.

The UNSW’s Australian Centre for Cyber Security research centre is located in Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).

The Centre’s work will help Defence and law enforcement agencies to protect Australia’s cyber activity and allow access to information essential to trade, prosperity and security.

“The cyber threat facing our nation comes from a wide range of sources, including individuals, issue-motivated groups, criminal syndicates and state-based actors,” Mr Robert said.

“We are lucky to have this centre located at ADFA where our future leaders will have access to state-of-the-art research on this significant issue.”

Media contacts:

Richard Briedis (Minister Robert’s office): 0477 391 174

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999