There is no question that cyber-security remains a prevalent and evolving challenge for many organisations across Australia.

This year alone, Australians have lost over $300 Million due to scams, and 84 per cent spike from the previous year.

Some of the top industries impacted include education, healthcare, government, communications and software vendors.

For graduates hoping to build a career in cyber-security in Australia, here are the key areas requiring cyber-security professionals, the in-demand roles for cyber-security graduates, and the appropriate qualifications that can help graduates find cyber-security jobs in Australia.

Related: Finding the right cultural fit

High demand areas for cyber-security talent

All aspects of a company’s IT system needs to address cyber-security issues. However, changes in technology and work practices are driving demand for cyber-security graduates in Australia across three main areas:

1. Cloud security

While cloud computing is fast becoming the system of choice for many businesses in Australia, it also brings fresh cyber-security risks.

These types of well-publicised cyber-attacks have underpinned the growth of cyber-security jobs for graduates in Australia.

2. Application security

Apps are big in Australia – and growing rapidly.

The burgeoning use of apps is not only putting pressure on companies in Australia to develop and upgrade applications, but also bringing increased need to protect sensitive information.

3. Network security

The pandemic – and the rise of remote working, has seen companies in Australia increase their investment in network security. This investment has spanned security technologies including cloud security and firewalls. But companies cannot afford to let their guard down.

This is seeing organisations in Australia place renewed focus on network security.

Related: How to find the right job

What jobs can you get with a cyber-security degree?

So far we’ve looked at the IT areas where there is strong demand for cyber-security professionals in Australia. Now let’s take a closer look at the cyber-security jobs that graduates may want to consider.

1. Systems Security Architect

A Systems Security Architect is typically tasked with designing, building, testing, and implementing a company’s security systems.

Day to day responsibilities can include monitoring the effectiveness of security measures.

2. Network Architect

Networks are instrumental in day-to-day operations for many organisations in Australia, and the role of the Network Architect is to design and build a network suitable to the company’s needs – from local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs) through to intranets.

3. IT Security Analyst

The IT Security Analyst is responsible for reviewing a company’s IT security and drafting recommendations and strategies to improve system security.

The IT Security Analyst may also be required to document any security incidents, manage system recovery, and advise on how security breaches can be avoided in the future.

4. IT Auditor

Larger companies will often engage an IT Auditor to formally review the organisation’s IT systems, processes and protocols, and ensure the system is compliant with regulatory standards in Australia and internationally.

5. Systems Engineer

The role of a System Engineer is to design and construct computerised systems as well managing IT infrastructure and ensuring a company’s IT systems are secure.

A Systems Engineer is often involved in managing installations, upgrades and configurations of hardware and software with a view to maximising protection against cyber-security threats.

Recommend qualifications for cyber-security jobs

Most cyber-security jobs for graduates in Australia requires tertiary qualifications.

This is typically a degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or Engineering depending on the role and the employer’s requirements.

Additional professional certifications can also improve a graduate’s career prospects in cyber-security.

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The most widely recognised certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) and GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC).

Graduates planning to build a career as an IT Auditor may also want to consider the Certified Information Systems A (CISA) certification.

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