October marks Cyber Security Awareness Month, a national initiative led by the Australian Government to promote safer digital habits across businesses and communities. This year’s theme—“Building Our Cyber Safe Culture”—calls on every organisation to embed cyber resilience into daily operations.
It can be easy to fall into the trap of believing that responsbility for cyber security belongs only to the IT Department but there are simple actions anyone can take to build our resilience.
SPAAL encourages members to take part by focusing on three key actions:
- Install software updates promptly
Updates patch vulnerabilities and keep systems secure. Enable automatic updates wherever possible. - Use strong, unique passphrases
A passphrase is a longer, more secure version of a password. Combine four or more random words and avoid personal details. - Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of protection, especially for sensitive accounts like email and banking.
These simple steps can dramatically reduce the risk of cyber incidents. Just as we lock our doors or buckle seatbelts, cyber safety should be second nature.
For more information and resources you can use to promote Cyber Security Awareness Month visit Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .
Both events listed below have been planned by the Department
Upcoming Events
SME Webinar: Simple Steps, Safer Business
27 October 2025, 3-4pm AEDT
Hosted by the National Office of Cyber Security, Scamwatch and Cyber Wardens.
Register here.
Health Sector Town Hall
30 October 2025, 10-11am AEDT
Featuring speakers from the Australian Digital Health Agencty and Australian Signals Directorate.
Register here.