NSW to subsidise security training

The NSW Government announced today that it will offer subsidised training in cybersecurity skills.

The development is a response to the increasing effects of cybercrime and a potential shortage in those skilled to protect against it.

Deputy Premier and Skills Minister John Barilaro said that cybercrime costs the nation up to $17 billion per year.

“This is more than just a skills shortage, it’s a matter of national security,” Barilaro said.

“The cybersecurity sector is forecast to triple in both size and revenue — from $2 billion to $6 billion — over the next 10 years.”

“We recognise there’s a serious need for cybersecurity experts in the field, which is why the NSW Government has decided to subsidise the Certificate IV in Cyber Security for eligible students.

“With the growing threat of cybercrime impacting everyone — from individuals being scammed over email to global institutions being hacked — there’s an urgent need for people with the skills to protect our digital lives and businesses,” he said.

A report from Frost & Sullivan and ISC recently showed the global cybersecurity workforce will have more than 1.5 million unfilled positions by 2020.

“Demand for cybersecurity services and related jobs is forecast to grow by at least 21% over the next five years, according to the federal government’s employment projections,” Barilaro said.

With the subsidy, eligible students could save up to 75% on the full cost of the Certificate IV in Cyber Security, normally priced at $8100.

“The government’s decision to add this course to the NSW Skills List, through Smart and Skilled, is another example of how we’re supporting people through Vocational Education and Training (VET) to skill up for the jobs of the future,” Barilaro said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/liravega

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