Spotlight on the 2025 AISA Awards: Celebrating Cyber Security Excellence in Australia
The Australian Information Security Association (AISA) recently unveiled the winners of the 2025 AISA Awards, spotlighting outstanding contributors in the realm of cyber security throughout Australia. This annual event serves as a platform to commend both individuals and organizations that have showcased excellence and leadership in enhancing cyber security, promoting workforce development, and raising community awareness within the digital sector.
Categories of Recognition
The AISA Awards encompass a broad spectrum of categories, shining a light on various significant areas like enterprise excellence, pioneering research, community education, fostering diversity, and honoring professional achievements. Each category offers an essential insight into the diverse contributions that shape Australia’s digital landscape.
Winners Unveiled
Among the celebrated honorees, nbn earned the title of Enterprise Employer of the Year, recognized for its exceptional leadership in embedding cyber security practices and establishing benchmarks within the industry. In the small business sector, Solution Tech was awarded SMB of the Year for its relentless efforts to enhance cyber resilience, profoundly impacting its community and the industry. Meanwhile, MyCISO was distinguished as Start-up of the Year, hailed as an innovative force with the potential to influence cyber security both nationally and internationally.
Public engagement and education also received accolades, with IDCare awarded Community Education Programme of the Year for its initiative that disseminates accessible and actionable cyber security knowledge to the public. In a nod to academic contributions, Angela An was honored as Researcher of the Year for her groundbreaking research that has significantly advanced the field.
Supporting STEM and Education
The recognition extended to educational institutions as well, with North Metropolitan TAFE celebrated as Best STEM Promoter of the Year. Their commitment to advocating for pathways in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics leading into cyber careers is pivotal for the future of the industry. Additionally, the Cyber Skills Enrichment Programme was awarded Educator of the Year for its initiatives that exemplify excellence in cyber education and training.
Diversity and Leadership Acknowledged
A strong emphasis on diversity was evident throughout the ceremony. Michael Burchell, AISA’s Chair, expressed the need for a more inclusive cyber security workforce, emphasizing the urgency to bridge the gaps for women and First Nations peoples.
Daisy Wong was recognized as Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year for her remarkable leadership in creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in the cyber security domain. Moreover, Peter Gigengack was honored as Mentor of the Year for his invaluable guidance and support to peers, while Ziqiang Xu earned the title of Tertiary Student of the Year, reflecting promise and ambition within academic spheres.
Recognizing Rising and Established Talent
Celebrating both emerging and established talent, Subi Shrestha was named Rising Star of the Year for her exceptional capabilities and promising leadership early in her career. Will Luker, with his sustained contributions to the field, received the Professional of the Year award, recognizing his influence and expertise within the industry.
Shane Tully earned the title of Outstanding Contributor to Cyber Security, applauded for his efforts in advancing the discipline on a national scale. The contributions of dedicated volunteers were also acknowledged, with Richard Magalad honored as Volunteer of the Year and Amit Chaubey recognized for his Outstanding Contribution to AISA.
Acknowledgment from the Association Chair
The award ceremony drew a crowd of over 5,000 delegates, highlighting the relevance and urgency of cyber security in today’s world. Michael Burchell remarked on the profound impact of the awards and their recipients, stating that AISA is proud to recognize those who strive tirelessly to protect Australia’s digital landscape.
He noted, "Their work strengthens not only the industry but also the communities and businesses that rely on secure and trusted systems every day." This acknowledgment underscores the crucial role that these individuals and organizations play in fostering a secure digital environment for all Australians.
The comprehensive list of awardees paints a vivid picture of the achievements across education, professional practice, community support, research, and industry advancement. As cyber security’s importance continues to rise in our interconnected world, these awards showcase the remarkable efforts being made to tackle current and future challenges, reinforcing the need for collective responsibility in securing our digital futures.
