Joint media release with Tasmanian Minister for Science and Technology Michael Ferguson and Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer MP.

The Tasmanian Cyber Security Innovation Node launched in Launceston today, joins five other state and territory nodes created in partnership with the Australian Government-backed AustCyber.

Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the new node would help drive innovation and economic growth in the cyber security sector.

“Growing the sector in Tasmania will attract business investment, create new jobs and support Australia’s national security through development of advanced cyber security capability,” Minister Andrews said.

“This is also about ensuring the long-term sustainability of Tasmania industry and creating new opportunities to grow the economy and create new jobs.

“The global cyber security market is expected to be worth US$270 billion by 2026 and the Morrison Government wants our local businesses to be a critical player.

“This node and others in the network will foster collaboration which will help Australia seize the opportunities and meet the rising demand for skilled cyber workers and services.”

The Tasmanian Node will have a particular focus on driving national strategy in the Smart Cities, Internet of Things (IoT) and Marine Technology sectors.

Tasmanian Minister for Science and Technology Michael Ferguson said the node would be an important part of protecting Tasmania from future cyber-security threats.

“Linking in with national cyber security efforts will assist Tasmania to respond more rapidly to future state, national and international threats, which are expected to become more pervasive in the future,” Mr Ferguson said.

“We are keen to play our part in Tasmania, and we look forward to delivering new opportunities in research and development in this important sector.”

Member for Bass Bridget Archer MP said the node would ensure Tasmania and Tasmanians can reap the rewards of the growing cyber security sector.

“There is enormous potential for jobs to be created and for Tasmanians to forge new careers in the cyber security space,” Ms Archer said.

“This node is perfectly positioned to remove hurdles for locals to start, scale and export their capabilities.”

AustCyber’s Tasmania Cyber Security Innovation Node is a collaboration between AustCyber, the Tasmanian Government and Enterprize Tasmania Ltd.

AustCyber was established as part of the Coalition’s Industry Growth Centres Initiative and is designed to grow a globally competitive cyber security sector.

Media contacts:

Minister Andrews’ office 02 6277 7070

Bridget Archer’s office 03 6334 7033

Minister Ferguson’s office 03 6165 7701