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Lt. General Michelle McGuinness, a 30-year military intelligence veteran, is appointed as Australia’s national cyber security coordinator. She aims to strengthen business-government collaboration against rising cyber threats.
Military intelligence veteran Michelle McGuinness has been appointed national cyber security coordinator by the Department of Home Affairs, formally replacing Air Marshall Darren Goldie, who was recalled last year following allegations about a workplace matter.
"I’m excited to get started and continue to ensure that Australia is best positioned to respond to threats of the digital age," McGuinness said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Mcguinness has served the defence force for 30 years in several roles,and most recently was deputy director for Commonwealth integration (DDCI).
"Previously, while serving in the Defence Intelligence Organisation, she led interagency intelligence efforts supporting whole-of-government counter-proliferation initiatives, as well as Australia’s Strategic Health Intelligence capability during the COVID-19 pandemic," Clare O'Neil, Minister for Home Affairs of Australia said in a statement.
"With the National Office of Cyber Security, the coordinator drives forward the necessary work to ensure Australia is best positioned to respond to the opportunities and challenges of the digital age.”
Praised for her extensive experience, McGuinness takes on a crucial position amid a surge in cyber attacks. Her challenge includes persuading major businesses to collaborate with government cyber defence experts to address escalating threats effectively.
McGuinness aims to position Australia strategically in navigating the opportunities and challenges of the digital age, building on her previous roles, including leading intelligence efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cyber incidents in the Asia-Pacific have surged 29% in the past year, with Australia facing major breaches at the University of Western Australia and Qantas. Manufacturing is the top target, deepfakes are on the rise, and experts warn the region is in a digital arms race demanding urgent action.
Qantas has confirmed a cyberattack exposing data from six million customers. Cybersecurity experts link the breach to the Scattered Spider group, known for targeting critical infrastructure. The incident highlights rising threats across the global aviation sector.
Asia-Pacific faced over one-third of all cyberattacks in 2024, making it the world’s top target. From manufacturing breaches to talent shortages and rising ransomware, CNC investigates how a region of digital ambition became cybercrime’s global epicentre.
AI is fueling a new wave of cyber threats—but it's also powering the tools to stop them. From privacy concerns and energy strain to predictive security and autonomous defence, this article explores how businesses are adapting to the dual impact of AI in 2025.
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