Australian government, Microsoft sign agreement strengthening cyber security

“We can’t stop all cyber attacks. But agreements like this make sure we’re more resilient,” Burke said.

“There’s no better example of private-public partnership than cyber, we rely on each other to keep Australians safe online.

“Microsoft is a critical partner in cyber security, and this agreement takes our relationship to the next level.”

As part of the MOU, a specific framework for operations regarding “strategic dialogue” between Microsoft and the Australian government was secured.

This is expected to monitor Australia’s digital resilience and evaluate the changing nature of digital threats. It also highlighted the importance of ensuring that “vital services” remain under sovereign Australian control.

“This collaborative approach is a strong example of how governments and industry can work together to support a more digitally resilient future, delivering meaningful benefits for the economy and society,” Monaco said.

Other areas of focus for the two parties’ collaboration include threat information sharing, secure adoption of AI services in government, and policy that seeks to improve Australia’s digital responses.

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“This partnership demonstrates what is possible when government and industry work together to strengthen critical systems, support trusted innovation, and ensure new technologies are deployed securely and responsibly in the national interest,” Monaco said.

The partnership comes following Microsoft’s $25 billion investment in Australian AI and cloud infrastructures back in April, when Microsoft chairman and CEO Satya Nadella visited.