NT govt to build cyber security operations centre

The NT government will establish a cyber security operations centre to identify and respond to cyber intrusions on agency IT systems in real-time.

Treasurer Nicole Manison announced the new centre over the weekend, as part of a $1.5 million investment in next month’s budget to strengthen the territory’s cyber security posture.

It will become the central base for cyber analysts, engineers and forensic specialist staff to monitor, identity and respond to malicious cyber-attack or intrusions on government IT systems.

Funding will also go towards enhancing security controls on the government’s IT network, and improving cyber security awareness across government and the community.

A further $850,000 in ongoing funding will also be spent on strengthening this protection.

Manison said the funding was “in response to the escalating cyber threat environment” and would help “ensure sensitive citizen data is protected and government services are not disrupted through cybercrime”.

It will also support the territory government’s new cyber security governance framework.

“With cybercrime and attacks an ever present threat to our privacy, security and financial bottom-line, cyber security is now one of the most critical strategic issues for organisations globally,” she said in a statement.

“While digital connectivity is vital for government's business, the escalating threat of cyber intrusion, with the potential to compromise or steal information or disrupt services, presents a significant and increasing business risk.”