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The cybersecurity sector in Australia is experiencing heightened complexity amid growing threats, AI-driven malware, and ongoing workforce gaps.
Australia’s critical infrastructure and organisations face a continuously evolving danger from advanced cyberattacks, which is creating more frequent data breaches and placing increasing strain on resources. Cybersecurity teams not only have to navigate this challenging threat landscape but also contend with a persistent shortage of skilled personnel.
Mandy Andress, Chief Information Security Officer at Elastic, commented on these changes and the importance of addressing the security workforce shortage. She highlighted the misconception that everyone entering the field must have a technical background.
“Contrary to popular belief, practitioners need not have a technical background. To bridge this talent gap, organisations should seek candidates from diverse backgrounds who can bring a range of skills, including creativity and problem-solving, to their cybersecurity teams.”
The demand for a broader skill set is becoming especially prevalent as technology and cyber threats evolve. Andress pointed out the effect these shifting requirements have on the makeup of cybersecurity teams and the need for broader recruitment criteria.
Despite efforts to encourage diversity, women remain underrepresented in cybersecurity roles across Australia. Andress noted that this underrepresentation is not just a matter of equity but also impacts the sector’s effectiveness.
“Despite the growing need for diversity, women remain underrepresented in cybersecurity roles. This isn’t just a representation issue; it’s a strategic gap.”
Andress emphasised that closing this strategic gap requires a re-evaluation of how organisations define qualification criteria for cybersecurity positions.
“To change that, it is essential to redefine what qualifies someone for these roles, focusing on attributes such as curiosity, adaptability and critical thinking, rather than past experience or certain qualifications.”
Elastic is taking steps to open the field to candidates from a variety of backgrounds. The company is working with educational institutions and recruiters to attract people who may not have previously considered careers in cybersecurity.
“At Elastic, we’re actively building more inclusive pathways by partnering with local universities and community colleges, welcoming career changers, and working with recruiters who prioritise diverse candidates.”
International Women in Cyber Day spotlights the continuing importance of diversity in the sector. Andress said that such recognition provides an opportunity to reiterate the value different perspectives bring to cybersecurity teams, which are better equipped to deal with an unpredictable risk environment when they include a range of viewpoints.
“International Women in Cyber Day serves as a reminder on the value that diversity brings to teams, leading to stronger and more resilient cybersecurity efforts. Having a diverse team with more women practitioners leverages different experiences and viewpoints to ensure that organisations are better equipped to deal with the shifting cybersecurity landscape.”
The comments from Andress come as concerns over cybersecurity in Australia mount, particularly for industries that form the backbone of the economy and public welfare. The shortage of experienced cyber professionals has been cited as a significant vulnerability, amplified by the sophistication of attacks.
Industry bodies and government departments have reported a critical need for both technical specialists and those with broader problem-solving capabilities. Initiatives to attract talent from non-technical backgrounds are increasingly being adopted, focusing on adaptability, creative thinking, and an ability to learn rapidly on the job.
Efforts from companies such as Elastic, in conjunction with broader industry and educational partnerships, are part of a drive to fill the cybersecurity skills gap by encouraging people from all walks of life, and especially women, to enter the sector. The approach redefines both the image and reality of what a career in cybersecurity can entail, at a time when defending against complex cyber threats has never been more important.
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