Become aCybersecurity Policy Strategist

• High demand for expertise
• Influence global security policies
• Protect critical information systems
• Diverse and dynamic career path

You’ll analyse cyber threats, assess risks, and devise plans to mitigate them. Whether it’s drafting legislation to regulate cybersecurity practices or working with government agencies to coordinate cyber defence efforts, you’ll be at the forefront of the battle against cybercrime. Your mission? To stay one step ahead of the cyber villains and keep our digital world safe and secure!

But being a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist isn’t just about fighting cybercrime – it’s about making a difference. By crafting policies that promote cybersecurity awareness, foster collaboration, and incentivise innovation, you’re not just defending against threats; you’re building a safer and more resilient digital future for generations to come. Your work extends beyond the confines of the office, influencing the policies and regulations that shape the global cybersecurity landscape. It’s a career that’s as challenging as it is rewarding, where you’ll be constantly learning, adapting, and innovating to stay ahead of the curve. So, if you’re ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of cybersecurity policy, strap in – the digital frontier awaits!

As a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist, you’ll have a world of opportunities to explore, with industries across the board needing your expertise to keep their digital assets safe.

Government

Crafting cybersecurity policies and regulations to protect national security.

Banking and Finance

Developing strategies to safeguard financial transactions and customer data.

Healthcare

Ensuring patient confidentiality and protecting sensitive medical records from cyber threats.

Technology

Advising tech companies on cybersecurity best practices and compliance with regulations.

Defence

Working with military and defence agencies to defend against cyber attacks on critical infrastructure.

Energy

Securing power grids and oil pipelines from cyber threats to prevent disruptions in energy supply.

Becoming a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist requires a unique blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

• Analytical Thinking
• Policy Development
• Risk Assessment
• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Attention to Detail

Studying the right subjects will lay the foundation for your career as a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle cyber threats head-on.

Cybersecurity

Understanding the fundamentals of cyber threats and defence mechanisms.

Political Science

Learning about government structures and policy-making processes.

Law

Understanding the legal frameworks and regulations related to cybersecurity.

Information Technology

Gaining technical expertise in networks, systems, and software.

Economics

Studying the economic impact of cybercrime and cybersecurity investments.

Communication Studies

Developing effective communication skills to convey complex cybersecurity concepts to non-technical audiences.

As a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist, you’ll be the digital defender fighting cyber threats and defending our online world.

From crafting policies to thwarting cyber attacks, every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference in the digital realm. 

• Develop strategies to thwart cybercriminals.
• Advise governments on national security protocols.
• Analyse emerging cybersecurity threats.
• Collaborate with international security agencies.
• Participate in cybersecurity think tanks.
• Conduct simulations of cyber attacks.

While not as publicly recognised as superheroes, there are Australians making waves in the field of cybersecurity policy.

Vanessa Pegueros 

Known for her strategic leadership at DocuSign.

Michelle Price

CEO of AustCyber, fostering innovation in cybersecurity.

Alastair MacGibbon

Special Adviser to the Prime Minister on Cyber Security.

Rachel Falk

CEO of the Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre.

In addition to technical skills, certain personality traits are essential for success as a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist.

• Strategic thinker
• Analytical
• Detail-oriented
• Problem-solver
• Team player
• Resilient

Educational Foundation

Start with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Universities such as the University of Western Australia (UWA) offer specialised courses in cybersecurity.

Advanced Degrees and Certifications

Pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Cybersecurity or Public Policy, to deepen your knowledge. Certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) are also highly valuable.

Ever thought about combining your love for technology with your passion for law or politics? With interdisciplinary studies, you can do just that! By blending different degrees or mixing in other types of learning like online courses or workshops, you’ll become a powerhouse of cybersecurity knowledge. Imagine studying computer science and law to understand the technical and legal aspects of cybersecurity or pairing political science with international relations to tackle cybersecurity policy on a global scale. With interdisciplinary studies, the possibilities are endless, and you’ll be well-equipped to tackle cyber threats from every angle.

Get ready to become a cyber expert! During your studies, you’ll learn everything from the basics of cybersecurity to the intricacies of policy-making. You’ll study topics like cyber threats, risk assessment, policy analysis, and international cybersecurity law.

You’ll also develop critical thinking skills, learn how to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences, and work on real-world projects that tackle cybersecurity challenges. By the time you graduate, you’ll be armed with the knowledge and skills needed to protect our digital world from cyber threats.

Another alternative pathway to becoming a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist is through on-the-job experience or training.

You can start by working in junior positions at cybersecurity firms, government agencies that focus on cybersecurity policy. With workplace experience, you’ll learn the ins and outs of cybersecurity policy and gain valuable skills that will prepare you for a career as a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist.

Plus, many organisations offer training programs and professional development opportunities to help you further develop your skills and advance your career.

Networking and Professional Development

Engage with professional networks and attend cybersecurity conferences and workshops. Being active in organisations like the Australian Information Security Association (AISA) can open doors to mentorship and career advancement.

Micro Learning

Microlearning is a fantastic way to dip your toes into the world of cybersecurity policy without committing to a full university degree. You can take short online courses or attend workshops that focus on specific aspects of cybersecurity policy, such as risk assessment, policy analysis, or international cybersecurity law. With microlearning, you have the flexibility to learn at your own pace and focus on the areas that interest you the most.

Western Australia

In Western Australia, opportunities abound for Cybersecurity Policy Strategists, particularly in industries like mining, energy, and defence. With the increasing digitisation of critical infrastructure, there’s a growing demand for cybersecurity experts who can develop policies and strategies to protect against cyber threats. Whether you’re working for government agencies, private corporations, or research institutions, you’ll play a crucial role in safeguarding Western Australia’s digital assets and infrastructure.

Australia

Across Australia, Cybersecurity Policy Strategists are in high demand, with opportunities available in government, industry, and academia. From developing national cybersecurity strategies to advising businesses on cybersecurity best practices, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make a difference in the field of cybersecurity policy. With the Australian government investing heavily in cybersecurity initiatives, there’s never been a better time to pursue a career as a Cybersecurity Policy Strategist in Australia.