EP# 32: A Rising Threat: Cyber Security in the APS - with Hamish Hansford

The rise of cyber crime and cyber warfare have forced governments around the world to rethink how they define safety and security. With Australia experiencing a record number of cyber threats, the role of government in combatting this threat is more important than ever.

In this episode of Work with Purpose, we are joined by Hamish Hansford, the First Assistant Secretary of the Cyber, Digital and Technology Policy Division at the Department of Home Affairs.

Hansford discusses his journey to becoming one of the government’s leading cyber security decision makers. He looks back on his twenty-year career in the Australian Public Service (APS), sharing the key insights he has picked up along the way.

He discusses his contribution to Australia’s cyber security infrastructure, as well as the impacts of COVID-19 on our use of digital technologies. What are the positive aspects of this change, and where do we have to be careful in navigating our increasing presence online?

Although the big, but less common cyber attacks attract the most attention, cyber security is actually an everyday occurrence we must all defend against. The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) receives one cyber crime report every 10 minutes.

Hansford discusses the role that individuals play in the fight against cyber threats, as well the public service as a whole. How can the APS collectively defend itself against the increasing number of cyber threats?

Discussed in this episode:

·      The future of cyber security and cyber threats. Will it get worse?

·      What the government must do to improve Australia’s preparedness toward cyber threats.

·      Advice about how to reduce your own susceptibility to cyber threats.

·      The career of Hamish Hansford, along with his advice for people beginning their APS careers. 

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