Google has partnered with Australia’s national science agency to develop innovative software aimed at automatically identifying and addressing network vulnerabilities for critical infrastructure operators. This initiative comes in response to an alarming rise in cyberattacks targeting essential services such as healthcare, defense, and energy.
The software will be tailored to fit Australia’s regulatory frameworks, enhancing the security of organizations that have faced increased scrutiny from the government following significant breaches that exposed the personal information of half the nation’s 26 million residents.
Stefan Avgoustakis, who leads Google’s security practice in Australia and New Zealand, emphasized that vulnerabilities in the software supply chain represent a worldwide concern, noting Australia’s proactive legislative efforts to mitigate these risks.
The partnership will leverage Google’s open-source vulnerability database along with the research capabilities of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). This collaboration follows Google’s commitment in 2021 to invest A$1 billion (approximately $675 million) in Australia, amidst growing regulatory pressures on global tech companies.
Ejaz Ahmed, CSIRO’s project lead, highlighted that developing cybersecurity solutions locally will ensure better compliance with regional regulations, thus fostering increased trust. The results of this project will be publicly accessible, facilitating easier access to crucial information for operators of critical infrastructure.