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2 clusters · 4 sources · 6 days · First seen · Last updated

Australia digital and AI risk management

Overview

Australia is addressing various risks associated with digital technology and artificial intelligence through both government funding and calls for increased support.

In late September 2026, the Australian eSafety Commissioner awarded nearly $1 million in grants to Indigenous-led programs. These initiatives aim to combat online abuse, including AI-powered threats, coercive control, and deepfakes targeting First Nations communities and young people.

By early October 2026, the focus expanded to the economic sector as small businesses called for government assistance to manage AI-driven cybercrime. Organizations such as the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) have urged the reinstatement of cybersecurity training programs, noting that 81 per cent of businesses believe cybercriminals are becoming more advanced due to AI. Business leaders have highlighted the dual risks of sophisticated scams and the unsafe use of generative AI tools by employees.

Entities

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission · Anika Wells · Australian Signals Directorate · Julie Inman Grant · Council of Small Business Organisations Australia

Timeline

  1. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Australian small businesses seek help against AI cyber risks

    Australian small businesses are seeking government aid and training to combat rising AI-driven scams and the risks of unsafe generative AI usage.

  2. [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Australia awards Indigenous grants to combat online and AI-powered abuse

    The Australian eSafety Commissioner has awarded nearly $1 million to Indigenous-led programs to combat online and AI-powered abuse against women and youth in remote communities.

Sources

communitynews.com.au · firstnationsnews.com.au · perthnow.com.au · theqldr.com.au