In August, Innovation Central Canberra partnered with Cisco and the University of Canberra to host the NIIN Cyber Alliance Executive Roundtable, a closed-door discussion that brought together leaders from government, industry, and academia to explore how Australia can navigate the opportunities and risks emerging at the intersection of artificial intelligence and cyber security.
The session opened with remarks from the Hon. Bill Shorten, Vice Chancellor of the University of Canberra, setting the stage for a timely and candid exchange. Participants included Peter Anstee from the Department of Home Affairs, Dr Rose Skandari from Cisco, Professor Frank den Hartog of UC, and Sarah Sloan from Splunk. Together, they reflected on the profound ways AI is reshaping technology and security in the public sector, and the practical steps Australia must take to stay ahead.
Across the conversation, several clear themes emerged. AI is rapidly transforming the security landscape, providing powerful new tools for defence while simultaneously enabling adversaries. Adoption across sectors remains uneven, with the public sector moving more cautiously than industry. Building sovereign capability was highlighted as essential, with investment in AI infrastructure and applied innovation critical to national resilience. And, underpinning all of this, participants emphasised the need to lift skills and literacy not only for technical specialists, but also for policymakers and leaders tasked with shaping future frameworks.
A consistent message was that no single organisation can address these challenges alone. Collaboration will be central to progress, with vehicles such as the National Industry Innovation Network (NIIN) and its Cyber Alliance established in 2023 and managed by the University of Canberra recognised as practical mechanisms for collective effort. Through these partnerships, Australia has the opportunity to accelerate applied innovation, strengthen its skills pipeline, and foster secure, intelligent technologies for government.
As the roundtable drew to a close, participants underscored the importance of clear strategy and shared responsibility. With AI set to become a defining feature of Australia’s digital future, coordinated action between government, industry, and universities will be essential.
Innovation Central Canberra is proud to play a role in shaping this dialogue, working alongside Cisco, the University of Canberra, and NIIN partners to help define secure and intelligent approaches to government technology.
