INTERNATIONAL CYBER ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY

Labor welcomes today’s release of the International Cyber Engagement Strategy.

 

The strategy echoes a shared commitment to maximise opportunities for digital trade, reduce the threat of cybercrime, and foster a mature and resilient regional cyber environment.  

 

Labor is, however, disappointed that it has taken the Turnbull Government 18 months to release the strategy – since it was first announced at last April’s Cyber Security Strategy launch – and 11 months since the appointment of Dr Tobias Feakin as Ambassador for Cyber Affairs.

 

Labor is also disappointed the strategy does not include meaningful deadlines or action “owners”. Actions will be delivered on an “ongoing” basis, or in the “short”, “medium” or “long” term, and multiple agencies are billed as the “lead agency”.

 

Labor appreciates negotiations with states and international parties take time and  require the input of many stakeholders, but is concerned the lack of transparency and accountability shown in the last year’s Cyber Security Strategy continues in today’s document.

 

To ensure all Australian businesses have access to potential international digital trade opportunities, Labor also encourages the Turnbull Government to include small and medium enterprises in its industry consultations, workshops and Industry Advisory Group.

 

A strategy for international engagement on cyber security is long overdue. Labor looks forward to this strategy delivering on its goals and vision to promote a free, open and secure internet for all.

 

Labor will take a close interest in the implementation of the International Cyber Engagement Strategy and seek a briefing on the detail, particularly the cyber security capability enhancements in the Pacific.