Palaszczuk Government ramps up commitment to cyber security

Published Friday, 16 June, 2017 at 10:09 AM

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy and Minister for Small Business
The Honourable Leeanne Enoch

The Palaszczuk Government’s $12.5 million commitment to combating cyber threats against government information technology is reaping rewards, according to the Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy, Leeanne Enoch.

Ms Enoch said the whole-of-government Cyber Security Unit is providing a coordinated approach to mitigating cyber threats and has helped avoid significant impact on government operations.

“As the recent global malware attack showed, potential threats could come from anywhere in the world and we need to understand these threats as they arise,” she said.

“Taking a centre-led approach in coordinating the Queensland Government response to these threats lets us counter them more effectively.”

The Cyber Security Unit was set up in February 2016 within the Queensland Government Chief Information Office, to enhance the protection of government information technology systems and coordinate the response to major security incidents.

Since then a Queensland Government Cyber Security Steering Committee, comprising senior executives, has been established to oversee a range of whole-of-government protections and programs.

Ms Enoch said the unit is reviewing and enhancing the Queensland Government’s internet gateway protection services.

She said the unit is supporting government agencies with cyber security awareness, education, and implementation of the Australian Signals Directorate’s ‘essential eight strategies’ across government.

“The protection of government information is an integral part of the government’s business,” Ms Enoch said.

“These practices reflect the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to continuous improvement of our cyber security position.

“There is no quick fix when it comes to eliminating the risk of cyber security incidents, and like all governments and large organisations around the world, we must remain vigilant in monitoring and protecting government systems and data,” she said.

ENDS

MEDIA 0412 393 909