The Cyber Security Support Program will provide comprehensive support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in cyber security infrastructure, awareness, training and compliance. It seeks to equip SMEs with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect their operations from cyber attacks, fostering a secure digital environment for business growth and innovation.

The Queensland Government recognises the critical importance of cyber security for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as their cyber maturity and resilience are fundamental to our economic stability, growth, and the broader protection of national interests.

The $15 million program has been developed in response to the increasing cyber threats that target SMEs. It aims to enhance these businesses' cyber resilience through tailored cyber security solutions and educational efforts designed to improve overall cyber security standards.

The program forms part of the Queensland Small Business Strategy 2024-27 , building on our ongoing commitment to help protect Queensland small businesses against cybercrime, and is expected to be rolled out over the coming months.

Program services

Cyber security infrastructure solutions package

  • Equip SMEs with state-of-the-art cyber security infrastructure and tools that are essential for protecting their digital assets and operations against cyber threats.

Cyber security awareness and training package

  • Increase awareness of cyber security risks and best practices among SME owners and employees through comprehensive educational programs and training workshops.
  • Ensure that all initiative participants have access to the latest information and techniques for managing and mitigating cyber risks.

Cyber security self-assessment toolkit

  • Provide SMEs with self-assessment toolkits that help them evaluate and enhance their cyber security measures.

Cyber security compliance training

  • Develop and disseminate comprehensive compliance training to ensure that SMEs are up-to-date with the latest legal and regulatory requirements.

Program objectives

The Cyber Security Support initiative aims to enhance SMEs' cyber security awareness, capabilities, and resilience while providing them with the necessary infrastructure solutions and knowledge to protect their operations from cyber attacks.

The program aims to:

  • strengthen the cyber security infrastructure of SMEs, enhancing their cyber maturity to withstand and rapidly recover from incidents
  • reduce the frequency and impact of cyber attacks on SMEs, minimising operational disruptions and financial losses
  • equip SME owners and employees with the knowledge and skills to effectively identify, prevent and respond to cyber threats
  • promote ongoing education and training to keep pace with evolving cyber security challenges and solutions
  • ensure that SMEs understand and adhere to national and international cyber security standards and regulatory requirements
  • facilitate the adoption of best practices in cyber security through structured compliance training programs
  • enhance the overall economic stability of Queensland by protecting its SME sector, a critical component of the state's economy
  • build confidence among consumers and investors regarding the cyber security posture of Queensland's SMEs
  • cultivate a proactive approach to cyber security within the SME community, where cyber risk management is integrated into the core business processes
  • encourage SMEs to engage in state initiatives and use government-provided cyber security resources and toolkits.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for this program, your business must have:

  • a minimum of 1 employee and a maximum of 199 employees (by headcount)
  • an active Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST
  • a registered Queensland headquarters (as per your Australian Business Register (ABR) record).

More information

Last updated 30 September 2024

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