New FW partnership to boost number of women in cybersecurity

The two-year initiative will drive cultural and structural change in one of Australia's key industries.

By FW

The two-year initiative will drive cultural and structural change in one of Australia's key industries.

By FW

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FW will deliver workforce training and conduct industry research as part of Cyber5050, a two-year initiative to recruit more women into cyber security to drive cultural and structural change. While women make up 48 percent of Australia’s overall full-time workforce, just 17 percent work in cyber security.

FW Managing Director and founder Helen McCabe said, “Right now women are sorely underrepresented in one of the key industries of the future. Through Cyber5050, FW will train current and future leaders of all genders to create a fairer, more inclusive industry which is set up to reap the economic and productivity benefits of a deeper and more diverse talent pool.”

Cyber5050 is a collaborative partnership between FW, CyberCX, the Australian Women in Security Network, the Australian Services Union and the Canberra Institute of Technology with funding from the Australian Federal Government’s Building Women’s Careers Grant.

As part of this partnership, FW will deliver and support the following initiatives:

Industry Research

We will conduct a public survey to identify and evaluate barriers to women’s participation in cyber security and publish the results. This research will inform actionable recommendations to increase the participation of women and gender diverse people in the industry.

Cyber Accelerator

A 12-month, self-paced online program that helps women and gender diverse people build confidence, leadership, and communication skills. It also offers networking opportunities tailored to participants working in male-dominated fields. Learn more

Cyber Change Makers

A program for men and gender diverse people to enhance their understanding of inclusive workplaces, drive cultural change, and foster open dialogue around gender equality in cyber security. Learn more

Cyber Fundamentals microcredential

Run by our partners, this is an introductory training course providing foundational knowledge of key cyber security concepts and considerations.

TAFE Education Pathway

Run by our partners, this is an opportunity to receive recognition of prior learning credits towards a Certificate IV in Cyber Security, including the chance to receive a fully funded qualification.