Despite the escalating cyber threat landscape, New South Wales (NSW) is moving forward with a significant reduction in its cybersecurity workforce. The NSW government has announced that it will be cutting at least 14 positions from Cyber Security NSW as part of a broader budget realignment. This decision comes in the wake of increasing reports of ransomware attacks and data breaches, raising concerns about the state’s ability to effectively defend against cyber threats.
The job cuts will impact both ongoing staff and several unfilled positions, including six vacant roles and one temporary position. The Department of Customer Service has stated that the restructure is part of a formal organizational realignment aimed at reducing operational costs. Employees and the Public Service Association (PSA) union will be consulted as part of this process to discuss the specifics of the impact and potential alternatives.
This decision contrasts sharply with recent reports showing a rise in cyber threats. According to Thales’ 2024 Critical Infrastructure report, ransomware attacks on critical infrastructure have increased, with 24% of entities reporting an attack in the past year, up from 21% the previous year. Additionally, the number of reported data breaches has remained high, underscoring the growing challenges faced by organizations in safeguarding sensitive information.
The reduction in cybersecurity personnel raises concerns about the state’s readiness to address these escalating threats. As the nature and frequency of cyberattacks continue to evolve, experts warn that diminishing cybersecurity resources could leave NSW vulnerable to more frequent and severe attacks. The NSW government’s decision to cut jobs comes at a critical juncture, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to budgetary constraints and cybersecurity needs.
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