Australians increasingly rely on digital health services, making cyber security essential to safe, trusted and connected care. The Australian Digital Health Agency’s Cyber Champions Program addresses the challenge of building practical cyber capability across a complex and distributed health and care sector, where organisations vary in size, maturity and access to specialist support.
The program implemented a community-led model that equips healthcare professionals to become trusted local advocates for cyber safe practice. Through five interactive online sessions, participants learn to recognise and respond to practical risks such as phishing, ransomware, business email compromise, social media and digital footprints, supply chain risk and vendor management. The Agency provides national leadership, structured training, practical resources and current cyber security advice, while participants bring local knowledge of patient-facing care, workforce pressures and day-to-day service delivery.
Since launching in August 2024, the program has created a growing national network spanning general practice, aged care, allied health, hospitals, Primary Health Networks, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, health software providers and other health settings. By reducing barriers to participation and supporting ongoing connection after induction, the program helps organisations translate national guidance into practical workplace action. Its impact is stronger cyber resilience, improved continuity of care, increased confidence in the protection of personal health information and a shared cyber culture across Australia’s health system.