First Peoples’ Action Plan
The Australian Institute of Cyber Security acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we operate and recognises the continuing connection of First Nations peoples to land, waters, and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging.
Our Commitment
AICS is committed to increasing the representation and participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the cyber security profession. This commitment reflects both the importance of ensuring that the profession draws on the full diversity of Australian society and the recognition that First Nations communities face specific cyber security challenges, including digital safety risks, identity theft targeting remote communities, and the digital literacy barriers that can leave individuals and communities vulnerable to exploitation.
Key Actions
AICS has developed a First Peoples’ Action Plan that guides our approach to reconciliation and inclusion. The plan focuses on creating accessible pathways into the cyber security profession for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through scholarship and training support, engaging with Indigenous communities on cyber safety awareness and digital security education, ensuring that AICS governance and advisory structures include Indigenous perspectives, partnering with Indigenous organisations and educational institutions to develop culturally appropriate training resources, and advocating for government policies that address the specific cyber security needs of First Nations communities.
Why This Matters
The cyber security profession has a responsibility to serve all Australians, and that responsibility extends to ensuring that the profession itself reflects the communities it protects. First Nations peoples bring perspectives, knowledge systems, and problem-solving approaches that strengthen any team and any profession. Increasing Indigenous participation in cyber security is not a peripheral goal; it is essential to building a profession that is genuinely equipped to protect the whole of Australian society.
Get Involved
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person interested in a career in cyber security, or if you represent an organisation working on Indigenous digital inclusion, AICS welcomes the opportunity to discuss how we can support your goals. Contact [email protected].