Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Australia’s largest cyber security conference, attracting over 5,500 professionals annually
- Organised by the Australian Information Security Association (AISA) and held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 14–16 October 2026
- Content streams cover technical deep dives, policy and governance, emerging technology including AI and quantum computing, and career development
- Features keynote speakers including Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Jen Easterly (former CISA Director), and Anthropic’s Deputy CISO Jason Clinton
- Includes the invitation-only RSAC CISO Boot Camp for aspiring chief information security officers
Introduction
AISA CyberCon 2026 is Australia’s premier cyber security conference, bringing together security professionals, government representatives, academics, and technology leaders to address the evolving threat landscape facing organisations across the Asia-Pacific region. Organised by the Australian Information Security Association, the event takes place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 14–16 October 2026 under the theme “Empowered Together”—a recognition that effective cyber resilience increasingly depends on collaboration across sectors rather than isolated defensive measures.
The timing is significant. Australian organisations face mounting pressure from sophisticated threat actors, evolving regulatory requirements under the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act, and the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into both offensive and defensive security operations. CyberCon provides a forum for practitioners to share knowledge, examine emerging technologies, and develop the cross-sector relationships that underpin national cyber resilience.
Conference Structure and Content Streams
The three-day program encompasses more than 450 sessions, workshops, and keynote presentations organised across six distinct content streams. The Keynote Stage hosts headline speakers and opening addresses in the main plenary, while Technical Deep Dives deliver advanced sessions designed for security engineers and hands-on practitioners working at the operational level.
The Policy and Governance stream addresses regulatory updates, compliance frameworks, and national security policy—particularly relevant as Australian organisations navigate enhanced critical infrastructure obligations and mandatory breach notification requirements. Emerging Technology sessions examine artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and next-generation threat landscapes, exploring both the defensive applications and novel attack vectors these technologies introduce.
A dedicated Careers Village supports students and professionals entering the cyber security field, addressing the persistent workforce shortage that continues to challenge the industry. Interactive Villages provide hands-on engagement through activities including a LEGO pit, Locksport challenges, and Cyber Games.
Notable Speakers and Thought Leadership
The speaker program features prominent figures from across the global cyber security community. Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, will address the future of data, privacy, and internet architecture. Jen Easterly, former Director of the United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and current CEO of RSAC, brings perspective on national-level cyber defence strategy.
Jason Clinton, Deputy CISO at Anthropic, will speak to the intersection of artificial intelligence safety and enterprise security—a topic of growing importance as organisations integrate large language models into business operations. Additional speakers include investigative journalist Geoff White, ethical hacker Freaky Clown, and security researcher Keren Elazari.
RSAC CISO Boot Camp
Preceding the main conference on 13 October, the RSAC CISO Boot Camp offers an invitation-only development program for aspiring chief information security officers. The intensive session combines presentations, facilitated discussions, and hands-on learning delivered by experienced CISOs and industry experts. The program recognises that the CISO role has evolved substantially, now requiring not only technical expertise but also board-level communication skills, risk quantification capabilities, and the ability to align security investments with business objectives.
Who Should Attend
CyberCon serves a broad cross-section of the cyber security community. Security practitioners and engineers benefit from technical sessions and vendor demonstrations across the exhibition floor, which hosts more than 160 exhibitors. CISOs and security leaders gain exposure to strategic thinking on governance, risk management, and emerging regulatory requirements. Government and critical infrastructure representatives can engage with policy discussions and cross-sector collaboration initiatives.
The event also welcomes those earlier in their careers, with the Careers Village providing pathways into the profession and opportunities to connect with potential employers. AISA members receive discounted registration, and membership provides year-round access to webinars, branch events, and training discounts with organisations including SANS and ISC2.
Networking and Industry Engagement
Beyond the formal program, CyberCon facilitates relationship-building through structured networking events. The Welcome Reception opens the conference with an opportunity to connect with speakers, sponsors, and fellow delegates. Networking Drinks on the exhibition floor provide a more relaxed setting, while the Block Party on South Wharf Promenade brings together hundreds of industry peers for an evening of entertainment. A Women in Cyber Breakfast supports connection and conversation among women and allies working in the sector.
These networking opportunities reflect the conference theme: meaningful collaboration requires personal relationships that extend beyond transactional interactions. For many attendees, the connections formed at CyberCon prove as valuable as the formal content program.