Investing in the now: Canberra Cyber Hub set to grow with new board appointments and additional funding. The Canberra cyber industry takes another step forward in positioning the ACT as Australia’s cyber capital.

The Canberra Cyber Hub Chair, Dr Michael Frater, is pleased to announce the appointment of Directors to the Canberra Cyber Hub Board.

Air-Vice Marshal Neil Hart (ret’d) has been re-appointed to continue his work in accelerating the growth of the Canberra cyber ecosystem, and Karen Shilling is warmly welcomed to the board as a director. Both directors will serve for three years.

Karen is an experienced entrepreneur in the information and technology sector and a respected member of the KBR Senior Leadership Team. Karen brings a wealth of knowledge and industry experience to the Canberra Cyber Hub and looks forward to supporting the growth of both cyber businesses and the industry.

“It’s an exciting time for the Canberra Cyber Hub. Over the last six months, we’ve established a strong cyber ecosystem, with the next two years dedicated to growing the sector and creating a more vibrant cyber community in Canberra,” said Michael Frater.

“We’re thrilled to have Karen join the board of directors and look forward to the experience, knowledge, and passion she brings.”

With the new board appointment, the Canberra Cyber Hub farewells interim director, Michelle Melbourne.

“I would like to thank Michelle Melbourne for her valuable contribution in establishing the Canberra Cyber Hub and particularly for the leadership and support she has provided to Canberra cyber SME’s,” said Michael Frater.

The ACT Government has committed an additional $1.87m to the Canberra Cyber Hub over the next two years. This funding will support the Cyber Hub’s ongoing mission of reducing the cyber skills shortage and developing a skilled workforce, further positioning Canberra as the cyber capital of Australia.

“Cyber security continues to be a key sector for the ACT economy and the growth of a skilled workforce is critical to the ongoing development of the sector,” said Chief Minister Andrew Barr.

Since the Canberra Cyber Hub’s inception, Canberra’s cyber ecosystem has gone from strength to strength. This has been supported by Cyber Hub-funded business programs, working group meetings and networking events. The Canberra Cyber Hub has signed an MoU with the Digital Skills Organisation to co-create a national framework that will foster careers in cyber, further reducing the national cyber skills and workforce shortages.