AKI SR in Canberra: Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection
Slovak and Australian experts discussed current cyber threats, the protection of strategic systems and opportunities for international cooperation.
As part of the professional programme of the business mission to Thailand and Australia, a meeting focused on cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection took place in Canberra, Australia, on 16 October 2026. The event was organised by Canberra Cyber Hub in cooperation with the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Canberra and was officially opened by Monika Tomasovičová, Slovak Ambassador to Australia. AKI SR was represented by its Executive Director, Stella Bulejková.
Addressing Specific Security Challenges
The meeting was more than a platform for presentations. A key part of the programme was a moderated discussion on shared security priorities, emerging cyber threats and organisations’ preparedness to respond to incidents.
Participants discussed the protection of operational technology (OT), cloud security, digital communications, post-quantum cryptography and the use of artificial intelligence. These topics are also highly relevant to critical infrastructure, where disruptions to information or control systems can affect the delivery of essential services and have consequences for other interconnected organisations.
Figures Highlight the Importance of the Issue
According to the Annual Cyber Threat Report 2024–25, the Australian Cyber Security Centre responded to more than 1,200 cyber security incidents during the reporting period. Critical infrastructure accounted for 13% of these incidents. Meanwhile, the number of notifications regarding potentially malicious cyber activity sent to critical infrastructure entities increased by 111% year on year.
These figures highlight the need for early threat assessment, effective system protection and preparedness to respond to incidents. This is also why sharing and comparing professional experience across countries is important for further strengthening critical infrastructure protection.
Benefits for AKI SR
AKI SR’s participation in the event provided an opportunity to present its areas of expertise and establish contacts with stakeholders in Australia’s cybersecurity, technological innovation and research sectors. Of particular interest to the association were insights into the protection of operational systems, cyber incident preparedness and emerging security technologies.
The knowledge gained and contacts established provide a basis for further professional dialogue and for assessing opportunities that could benefit AKI SR’s member organisations.
International activities therefore help the association monitor the development of security solutions beyond Europe and bring new professional insights into the Slovak critical infrastructure protection environment.
Further engagement will continue through direct professional communication, with the aim of identifying specific thematic areas in which closer cooperation could be developed, including joint research activities in cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection.
