“We are excited to have Queensland join our national network and in such a big way.”

Those were the words of AustCyber chief executive Michelle Price when it was announced that three cybersecurity innovation nodes will be established in Queensland – a first for the federal government-backed AustCyber network, which is already present in six other states and territories.

To make businesses more secure, hubs will be set up in Brisbane, Townsville, and the Sunshine Coast.

“As the world becomes more digital, particularly in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, cybersecurity technology has never been more important or in demand,” said Minister for Industry, Science, and Technology Karen Andrews. “We want our local businesses to be in a position to capitalise on that.

“Cybersecurity is central to business confidence and trust in digital technologies. It enables innovation and commercialisation across a range of sectors, which creates jobs and enhances global competitiveness.”

Price added that having three locations will allow node managers to work together across the state, as well as giving Queensland-based cybersecurity companies greater access to services that support growth.

Commenting on the development, Queensland Minister for Innovation Kate Jones stated: “These nodes will strengthen the state’s knowledge economy, particularly in the areas of defence, advanced manufacturing, health, and education.

“We all need to work together to protect and advance Australia’s cyber interests, and partnerships such as this are central to the process.”