We note the draft Assistance and Access Bill 2018 has been referred to the Senate.
We understand that some of our stakeholders are concerned about the impact of this proposed legislation. AustCyber remains focused on ensuring that Australia’s cyber security sector will continue to grow and deliver economic and security benefits to the whole economy.
Upon request from AustCyber, relevant officers from the Department of Home Affairs will brief us on the Bill’s details, including its most recent amendments. This briefing will occur as soon as possible, noting the legislation is still in draft at the time of this statement.
If the legislation is passed, AustCyber will advocate for it to be implemented in a way that minimises the economic impact on the many businesses – small and large – that make up Australia’s burgeoning cyber security sector.
Additionally, AustCyber will help these businesses to understand the legislation and communicate effectively with their own customers, investors and supply chains about the ongoing integrity and sustainability of Australia’s sovereign cyber security capabilities.
AustCyber will do this through:
– Finalising and publishing the industry survey that we undertook in partnership with ASPI which will provide the evidence base for our advocacy and communication efforts.
– Delivering industry briefings, with key legal and policy professionals, across Australia as soon as practical.
– Developing communication toolkits for the cyber security sector that provide contextual information about the legislation and more detail on its implementation.
– Continuing to drive the promotion of Australia’s cyber security sector to the broader economy – domestically and globally – with increasing momentum as international interest in Australian capability grows.
