The Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre (Aus3C), in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and CSIRO’s Data61, has begun working on the development of a Voluntary Data Classification Framework (VDCF). Announced on November 28, 2024, the initiative aims to address the challenges that businesses across various sectors face when it comes to assessing and protecting sensitive data. The VDCF is designed to provide a unified, standardized set of tools to help organizations classify and safeguard their data effectively, making it easier to identify and assess the value and risk of their data.
A major obstacle faced by industries is the lack of a consistent framework for evaluating the sensitivity of data, which often leads to difficulties in communicating risks and implementing appropriate security measures. Matthew Salier, CEO of Aus3C, emphasized that this inconsistency increases enterprise risk and makes it more challenging to protect valuable data. The VDCF seeks to bridge this gap by offering a clear and structured approach to data protection across a range of business sectors.
As part of the framework’s development, Aus3C will host a series of nationwide workshops where Australian businesses can engage with cybersecurity experts and learn about the importance of protecting their data. These workshops will be held in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide, providing businesses with the opportunity to understand the framework and the tools it will offer for improving data security. The consultation period for the framework will conclude with its official launch in late 2025, providing Australian organizations with the resources needed to enhance their cybersecurity posture.
Salier stressed that the overarching goal of the VDCF is to empower Australian businesses to take control of their data security. With a focus on education and practical resources, the framework aims to help organizations navigate the increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape. By equipping businesses with the necessary tools and knowledge, Aus3C hopes to foster a stronger, more resilient data security environment across the country.
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