Academy to fast-track cybersecurity careers

A newly established Cyber Academy aims to increase Australia’s cybersecurity workforce.

People can now register their interest in the academy, which is a partnership between the University of Wollongong (UOW), Deloitte, TAFE NSW and Swinburne University of Technology.

NSW Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the new academy would fast-track 1200 careers in the rapidly growing cybersecurity sector, through a blended three-year ‘earn as you learn’ program.

“This collaboration harnesses world-leading expertise to ensure a pipeline of highly skilled graduates can hit the ground running and provide vital protection for our economy in the cyber sector,” Henskens said.

“This innovative, Australian-first program is a fantastic example of education providers and industry leaders coming together to solve a pressing issue for our communities.”

The program, with seed funding provided by the NSW Government under its NSW Higher Education Strategy, will see trainees employed by Deloitte, a NSW Government department or an industry partner, while undertaking online training coupled with face-to-face learning for three years.

Graduates will emerge with a Diploma of Information Technology (Cyber Security) from TAFE NSW and a Bachelor of Computer Science (Cyber Security) from UOW. Swinburne University will deliver places in Victoria.

According to a report by The Data Institute, Australia can expect demand for at least 17,600 additional professionals in the sector by 2026.

UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Life) Professor Theo Farrell said the academy will pave the way for a new generation of cybersecurity professionals.

“We’re proud to partner with Deloitte and TAFE NSW to roll out this program that will help address this critical cyber skills shortage and contribute to this vital area of Australian resilience and security,” Farrell said.

Deloitte Australia Risk Advisory Managing Partner Steve Jansz said the first-of-its-kind program would combine nationally recognised qualifications with on-the-job training and mentorship.

“The risks of more complex and sophisticated cyber attacks are clear, and we need the best and the brightest working in cyber to help protect Australians and Australian businesses,” Jansz said.

Swinburne Vice-Chancellor Professor Pascale Quester said the program embodies Swinburne’s commitment to be the prototype of a new and different university for the 21st century.

“As a dual-sector institution that is committed to helping our learners succeed in a tech-rich future, we’re delighted to be providing students with this innovative education and employment opportunity,” Quester said.

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