The AIIA commends the transparent and consultative approach with industry taken by the Department of Home Affairs throughout the development of critical reforms.
The consultation process with the AIIA demonstrates a commitment to collaborative policymaking that balances the needs of government, industry, and the wider community.
The AIIA is particularly encouraged by the Government’s efforts to harmonise cyber security standards with international frameworks, which is essential to reducing the compliance burden for Australian businesses operating in the global market.
By aligning domestic regulations with global best practices, businesses will face fewer regulatory obstacles, enabling them to focus on innovation and growth.
One of the key strengths of the proposed reforms is the emphasis on fostering cooperation between the government and industry in addressing cyber incidents swiftly and efficiently.
The introduction of a voluntary information-sharing framework and limited use obligation, led by the National Cyber Security Coordinator, will help both public and private sectors tackle cyber threats with less fear of punitive civil or criminal action.
The AIIA has consistently opposed Part 3A in the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act that allows step in and intervention powers of the government. It will also oppose further expansion in the bill to now apply to all hazards incidents impacting critical infrastructure assets and having cascading impacts to other critical infrastructure sector assets.
The removal of the word “cyber” to just incident makes it broad in scope and unclear as to how the Commonwealth can implement such powers.
AIIA CEO Mr Simon Bush said, “While we don’t agree with all aspects of the new legislation, we cannot fault the Department for its consultative approach with industry where it has listened to our concerns and narrowed the scope of some of the new regulations to make them more targeted and effective,”
“On balance, we support the legislation despite the further expansion of the Part 3A powers and look forward to working with the regulators moving forward.”
“The AIIA remains committed to supporting the government’s cyber security agenda and will continue to engage with policy makers to ensure that the interests of the technology industry are represented and that reforms promote both security and business growth,” Mr Bush said.
The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) is the peak ICT body, representing 300 leading companies and start-ups and their 1M workforce.
Since 1978, AIIA has pursued strategic policies and activities to stimulate and grow Australia’s digital ecosystem to create a favourable business environment and contribute to Australia’s economic prosperity.
