Google and CSIRO team up to strengthen Australian cybersecurity

Google and Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, are teaming up to develop digital tools to detect and fix software vulnerabilities for critical infrastructure operators automatically. The initiative comes in response to a substantial increase in cyberattacks that have targeted essential sectors such as hospitals, defence bodies, and energy suppliers.

The collaboration will focus on creating software tailored to Australia’s regulatory environment. Google will contribute its existing open-source vulnerability database and AI services, while CSIRO will apply its research expertise to enhance the project’s outcomes. The goal is to provide customised cybersecurity solutions that align with local laws and promote greater compliance and trust.

The partnership is part of Google’s commitment to invest A$1 billion in Australia over five years, a pledge made in 2021 amidst Australia’s efforts to enforce stricter regulations on global tech companies. The collaboration is seen as a critical step in bolstering the country’s defences against cyber threats.

Why does this matter?

The Australian government has recently imposed stricter requirements on critical infrastructure operators to report and prevent cyberattacks following a series of breaches that compromised the personal data of millions of Australians. The tools developed through this partnership aim to mitigate such risks and ensure the security of essential services.

The findings from this research will be made publicly available, ensuring that critical infrastructure operators can easily access the information and improve their cybersecurity measures.