In an era of escalating cyber threats, the intersection of cyber security and emergency management has never been more critical. As cyber incidents increasingly disrupt essential services, government agencies must adopt integrated, resilient strategies that align cyber security with emergency management frameworks.

This presentation explores the evolving cyber threat landscape and its impact on critical infrastructure, public safety, and government operations. It highlights the necessity for structured coordination, rapid response capabilities, and cross-sector collaboration to mitigate cyber crisis effectively. Drawing from real-world incidents the discussion will emphasise the importance of leadership, professionalisation, and capacity-building in cyber resilience.

Michael, as the Deputy Director, Cyber Resilience & Engagement for the South Australian Government and brings extensive experience in leading cyber crisis preparedness and response efforts. His role involves developing crisis strategic policies, fostering interagency cooperation to withstand and recover from cyber Incidents, and emergencies.

This session will provide insights into best practices for integrating cyber security within emergency management structures, ensuring that government agencies are equipped to manage cyber crises proactively. It will also explore pathways to strengthen leadership and professionalisation in the emergency management, reinforcing the need for a skilled and adaptive workforce to navigate the challenges of an increasingly digital threat environment, and managing the consquances when that threat is relaised.