Tasmania will play host to its first Cyber Security Innovation Node, with government-funded cybersecurity support network AustCyber announcing the launch of its latest hub in its nation-wide cyber-defensive ring.

Part of AustCyber’s national network of cybersecurity Innovation Nodes, with each Node set to task to work on “particular strengths” identified within local ecosystems, the Launceston-based hub will be assigned to drive a national strategy across smart cities, Internet of Things (IoT), and marine technology sectors.

These will be in addition to the Nodes’ nation-wide remit to foster and accelerate cyber capability development and innovation and nurture the next generation of cyber professionals.

“As a local presence for AustCyber, the Node will ensure Tasmania benefits from the activities outlined in Australia’s Cyber Security Sector Competitiveness Plan, supporting sustained industry growth around servicing domestic cybersecurity needs while exporting capabilities to the world,” said Michelle Price, chief executive of AustCyber.

Tasmania becomes the latest state or territory to join the national Nodes scheme, with NSW and the ACT launching the scheme’s first nodes mid-last year.

According to Gartner and AlphaBeta Analysis research, Tasmania maintains among the smallest contingent of cybersecurity professionals, with fewer than 500 registered in the state.

Casey Farrell, Node Manager for AustCyber’s Tasmania branch, said the local Node will support early-stage cybersecurity startups, as well as numerous community-building activities to attract new talent to the sector. Additional support will also be given to local start-up incubator Enterprize to establish a dedicated cybersecurity stream.

AustCyber, a federally funded not-for-profit – also known as the Australian Cyber Security Growth Network – was established as part of the Government’s Industry Growth Centres Initiative, with a chief remit to boost Australia’s cybersecurity capability.

The Tasmanian Node is jointly funded by AustCyber and the Tasmanian Government, with Enterprize Tasmania Ltd as the delivery partner.

In Australia alone, external spending on cybersecurity products and services grew by eight per cent to A$3.9 billion in 2018, according to AustCyber figures. This compares with six per cent growth in 2017.