Australia’s Critical Infrastructure Resilience: A Call for Expertise and a Glimpse into the Future
The stakes are rising. A recent report by the World Economic Forum identified critical infrastructure failures as a top global risk, with potential cascading effects reaching far beyond initial impact zones. Now, Australia’s Cyber and Infrastructure Security Centre (CISC) is bolstering its defenses by seeking applications for its Resilience Expert Advisory Group (REAG), a move that signals a proactive shift towards anticipating – and mitigating – increasingly sophisticated threats. This isn’t just about filling advisory roles; it’s about building a future-proof framework for national security.
The Expanding Role of the REAG
The CISC’s call for expressions of interest, closing September 12th, underscores the importance of continuous knowledge retention and renewal within the REAG. This group, operating under the Trusted Information Sharing Network (TISN), directly advises on strengthening the resilience of Australia’s vital infrastructure – everything from energy grids and water supplies to transportation networks and communications systems. Their work is intrinsically linked to the 2023 Critical Infrastructure Resilience Strategy and Plan, meaning REAG members will be at the forefront of implementing national security priorities.
But the REAG’s role is evolving. Traditionally focused on reactive measures – responding to incidents and vulnerabilities – the group is increasingly tasked with proactive resilience building. This includes anticipating emerging threats, developing best practices, and fostering collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders. Expect to see a greater emphasis on predictive analytics and threat intelligence sharing in the coming years.
Beyond Cybersecurity: A Holistic View of Resilience
While cybersecurity remains a paramount concern – and a key skill sought in REAG applicants – the definition of “resilience” is broadening. The CISC explicitly highlights the need for expertise in areas like personnel hazards, supply chain vulnerabilities, and network disruptions. This reflects a growing understanding that critical infrastructure is susceptible to a wide range of threats, not just cyberattacks.
Consider the impact of climate change. Extreme weather events – floods, bushfires, droughts – are increasingly disrupting critical infrastructure, exposing vulnerabilities that go beyond the digital realm. The REAG will likely play a crucial role in integrating climate resilience into national infrastructure planning. Similarly, geopolitical instability and supply chain disruptions are forcing a reassessment of reliance on global networks, demanding a focus on domestic capabilities and redundancy.
The Rise of Operational Technology (OT) Security
A particularly critical area of focus will be the security of Operational Technology (OT) – the hardware and software that controls industrial processes. OT systems, often decades old and lacking robust security features, are increasingly connected to IT networks, creating new attack vectors. Protecting these systems requires specialized expertise and a deep understanding of industrial control systems. The REAG’s guidance will be vital in bridging the gap between IT and OT security practices. For further information on OT security best practices, see the CISA’s Operational Technology Security guidance.
The Importance of Diversity and Collaboration
The CISC’s commitment to diversity in REAG membership – actively encouraging applications from women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, people with disabilities, and individuals from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds – is not merely a matter of equity. Diverse perspectives are essential for identifying blind spots and developing truly resilient solutions. A homogenous group, however skilled, is likely to overlook critical vulnerabilities.
Furthermore, the REAG’s success hinges on effective collaboration. The group must foster strong relationships with TISN Sector Groups, Home Affairs stakeholders, and, crucially, with critical infrastructure owners and operators themselves. Information sharing, joint exercises, and collaborative threat intelligence are all vital components of a robust resilience framework.
Looking Ahead: Resilience as a Continuous Process
The CISC’s initiative is a clear signal that Australia is taking critical infrastructure resilience seriously. However, it’s crucial to recognize that resilience is not a destination, but a continuous process of adaptation and improvement. As threats evolve and new vulnerabilities emerge, the REAG – and the broader ecosystem it supports – must remain agile, innovative, and proactive. The challenge isn’t simply about defending against today’s threats, but about preparing for the unknown challenges of tomorrow. What new, unforeseen risks will demand attention in the next five years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
