The Federal Government has launched a $26.5 million program to support innovative projects that improve the quality or quantity of cybersecurity professionals in Australia.
The Cyber Security Skills Partnership Innovation Fund will provide eligible industry and education providers with grants of between $250,000 and $3 million to fund 50% of their project expenditure.
Eligible activities may include: developing and delivering specialist cyber security courses for professionals, retraining programs, professional development, apprenticeships, establishing new internships, cadetships, work experience and staff exchanges and establishing cyber labs and training facilities.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the funding will support partnerships between industry, education providers and governments to build the next generation of cyber security experts.
“Cyber security is essential to our digital economy and needs to be strong in all areas, particularly in small and medium enterprises which comprise 98 per cent of all Australian businesses,” Ms Andrews added.
The Cyber Security Skills Partnership Innovation Fund is part of the $50 million Cyber Security National Workforce Growth Program, a key element of Australia’s Cyber Security Strategy 2020.
Applicants must submit a joint application, with one lead organisation which is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply, and at least one other project partner.
It is estimated $13 million will be available for Round One of the grants program, which closes on11 March 2021. The second round of funding is expected to be launched late this year.
