The Australian Cyber Security Research Centre (CSRC) announces the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer, Ms Rachael Falk.
A not-for-profit company dedicated to promoting industry investment into cyber security research and development, the CSRC will deliver an Australia-wide approach to respond to cyber threats and cybercrime.
Ms Falk comes to CSRC with a strong commercial and cyber security background having practiced as a lawyer for 15 years both in law firms but also in-house at Telstra Corporation Limited. Ms Falk became Telstra’s General Manager of Cyber Influence. More recently she has been a cyber security consultant. She is the co-author of the Five Knows of Cyber Security and is well known in cyber security for her unique and respected insights.
CSRC Chair, Mr David Irvine AO said, “Strong cyber security is a critical issue for our economy and for Australia’s prosperity. We are delighted to have Rachael as our Chief Executive. Not only does she bring a wealth of industry knowledge, she will ensure that CSRC collaborates with academia, industry and government to deliver industry-driven cyber security outcomes. We want our research and work to have an impact benefitting Australia both now and well into the future.”
Mr Irvine acknowledged the hard work of Dr Darrell Williamson, who acted as interim CEO during the establishment phase of the CSRC. “Dr Williamson played a key role in bringing together the CRC’s 25 industry, academic and government partners.”
Mr Irvine also acknowledged the strong support of the Australian Government, which will be contributing $50 million to a programme valued in cash and in kind at $140 million over seven years. The Western Australian government has provided substantial support for the CSRC initiative, along with support from the South Australian and NSW governments.
