The Federal Government has announced the appointment of Air Marshal Darren Goldie AM CSC as the first-ever National Cyber Security Coordinator. This solidifies the government’s goal of strengthening its cybersecurity landscape.
With over three decades of distinguished service in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Air Marshal Goldie brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to this crucial role.
Australia’s new cyber security coordinator
Having served as Air Commander in Australia, the Air Marshal has played a pivotal role in enhancing the capability and resilience of the RAAF. He spearheaded the coordination of defence responses during natural disasters and the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic.
In addition, Air Marshal Goldie held prominent leadership positions. This includes providing strategic foreign policy advice to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet from 2020 to 2021.
“Air Marshal Goldie’s work ensures that we can rely on someone to handle significant national cyber incidents. Goldie can easily coordinate the national effort to manage those incidents,” Minister for Cybersecurity Claire O’Neil said.
“Air Marshal Goldie will help us prepare for future cyber incidents.”
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Commencing his term on July 3, 2023, Air Marshal Goldie will assume the responsibility of the National Cyber Security Coordinator. Together with the National Office of Cyber Security, he will lead efforts to position Australia at the forefront of the digital age.
In his new role, the National Cyber Security Coordinator will play a pivotal part in shaping national cyber security policy. This will include coordinating responses to major cyber incidents, bolstering government-wide preparedness for such incidents, and enhancing the Commonwealth’s cyber security capabilities.
Collaboration with key policy, operational, and security agencies will be a cornerstone of the National Cyber Security Coordinator’s responsibilities.
The appointment builds upon the Federal Government’s commitment to implementing the 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy. This follows a Cyber Security Industry Roundtable earlier this year which highlighted Australia’s improved cyber defences.