The Gold Coast will become a breeding ground for job-ready cyber security professionals, with a Robina-based software company to use a $1 million Federal funding injection to deliver on-the-job training.
In partnership with Griffith University, RightCrowd’s Gold Coast Cyber Studio will create job-ready security professionals through industry traineeships and international project experience opportunities.
Minister for Home Affairs and Member for McPherson Karen Andrews MP said the Cyber Studio is one of eight successful applicants under Round One of the Cyber Security Skills Partnership Innovation Fund.
“This scheme is designed to help lift the nation’s cyber security capability, as we know the industry will need an extra 7,000 workers by 2024,” Mrs Andrews said.
“It’s great to see this kind of innovation on the Gold Coast. It not only helps build industry capability, but also the skills of local cyber security professionals and those looking to take up a cyber career.
“I would encourage professionals and students to take part in the project to grow their cyber security knowledge and expertise to help protect our digital economy and keep Australians safe online.”
CEO of RightCrowd Peter Hill said his company, in partnership with Griffith University, is ideally placed to inspire the next generation of cyber-physical security professionals.
“Our leading security solutions have been deployed at some of the largest companies in the world and we will provide graduates with international security industry exposure,” Mr Hill said.
“They’ll have the opportunity to work alongside experts in the field – sharing their knowledge directly on a day-to-day basis.
“Particularly now with international travel so difficult, the ability to offer graduates security placements with international clients – while based on the Gold Coast – is just an outstanding early career opportunity.”
Professor Paulo De Souza Junior, Head of School, Information and Communication Technology at Griffith University said he’s excited by the opportunity to engage with the Gold Coast cyber security industry.
“The cyber security industry in Australia has a need for a significant number of cyber security professionals,” Prof De Souza Jr said. “That’s why Griffith University has made it a priority to provide quality education and training in this field.”
“This joint program will provide qualified cyber security professionals that have tertiary qualifications, customized specific practical skills, and workplace experience.”
Round Two of the $43.8 million Cyber Security Skills Partnership Innovation Fund (announced in the 2021-22 Federal Budget) opens later this year. It’s part of the $1.67 billion Cyber Security Strategy 2020 – aimed at strengthening the nation’s cyber capability.
More information on the Fund can be found at: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/cyber-security-skills-partnership-innovation-fund
For more information on the Round One projects, including the Gold Coast Cyber Studio, visit: www.business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/cyber-security-skills-partnership-innovation-fund/grant-recipients