Cyber professionals from across Defence are preparing to test their skills in the ninth annual Cyber Skills Challenge, running from December 1 to 5.

Hosted by the ADF Cyber Skills Association (ADFCSA), Defence’s premier capture-the-flag (CTF) tournament draws more than 900 participants from the ADF, APS, industry, academia and international partners.

Held on site at the hotel QT Canberra and online, the challenge comprises hands-on workshops, presentations and a multi-day CTF competition designed to stretch cyber minds across all experience levels.

Director Cyber Capabilities, Joint Capabilities Group, Colonel Paul Galea, said it was a great way to gather and compete in a team with other like-minded individuals. 

This year’s theme, ‘Hack to the Future’, reflects the evolution of warfare – from the trenches of 1915 to today’s contested digital battlespace. 

'This is not something you want to miss – I encourage anyone who is interested to give it a go.'

He said cyber was now a core domain, and emerging technologies continued to reshape how Defence operated.

“Working closely with our industry partners, we have put together an exciting set of tasks and challenges this year, which are going to excite, test and maybe even frustrate participants from all levels of experience,” Colonel Galea said. 

“This is not something you want to miss – I encourage anyone who is interested to give it a go.”

ADF and APS cyber enthusiasts are welcome to join the ADF Cyber Skills Association to participate in regular seasons of cyber competitions to practise for the main event. 

The challenge uses a stepped-level approach, making it accessible for newcomers and seasoned cyber professionals. A team of 10 ADF and APS personnel has worked to deliver the event.

Participants can express interest by emailing: cyberskills.challenge@defence.gov.au

More information is available at the ADF Cyber Skills Challenge website or via adf.cyberskillsassociation@defence.gov.au