Defending Western Australia against cyber crime

• State Government developing hazard management framework for response to significant cyber crises
• Next steps involve consultation with key stakeholders over coming months
  

The State Government is progressing an emergency management framework for cyber security incidents which will boost its ability to respond to significant attacks on digital systems and data.

The new framework builds on the WA Government's existing cyber capabilities to detect and respond to cyber risks including the State Cyber Security Operations Centre.

Over the coming months, the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) will consult with stakeholders, including private enterprises and the local government sector, to draft a State Hazard Plan for Cyber Security.

DPC will also investigate the viability of introducing cyber security as a hazard in the Emergency Management arrangements for Western Australia.

WA currently has 28 designated natural and man-made hazards including bushfires, floods, terrorist acts, missing persons, heatwaves and rail crashes.

The State Emergency Management plan provides a management framework for each hazard, stipulating clear roles and responsibilities that ensure a rapid and effective response to maintain public safety.

Comments attributed to Emergency Services and Innovation and the Digital Economy Minister Stephen Dawson:

"A number of recent malicious and sophisticated cyber incidents are a reminder that cyber security has never been more critical to safeguard Western Australians.

"By developing a proposal for an overarching emergency response, the State Government is ensuring that cyber security is a collective responsibility and we are prepared to mitigate the impact of any large-scale attacks.

"The State Government looks forward to collaborating with the public and private sector to ensure we stay resilient against cyber crime."

Minister's office - 6552 5800