The second cohort of interns in a statewide cyber internship program are about to graduate as part of efforts to increase Victoria’s cyber security.
Provided at Victoria University (VU), the program offers one-of-a-kind opportunities for interns to learn from cyber experts, while growing Victoria’s pool of cyber talent.
This year’s seven interns are all recent graduates from the TAFE Certificate IV in Cyber Security.
Interns gain hands-on experience in critical areas including incident response, cyber awareness, threat intelligence, governance and project management at the Department of Government Services.
Government Services Minister Natalie Hutchins said that the program “supports the growth of Victoria’s cyber expertise so we can fight the increasing rate of cybercrime and help keep our community safe from cyber-attacks.”
One current intern of the program studied at VU and is passionate about educating the community and spreading awareness about cyber safety – particularly to elderly Victorians who may be more susceptible to cyber scams.
He has learned skills to prepare organisations for and respond to cyber security risks.
Another is also an intern who studied at VU and has always provided tech support to friends and family to keep them safe online.
He has enjoyed collaborating with the other interns on cyber projects, and contributing to cyber training for government staff while learning skills in incident response and cyber awareness and education.
The program launched in 2024 and saw five interns graduate, with four entering into the cyber workforce, and one returning to further study.
The current participants in the Cyber Internship Program will graduate in August.
By developing homegrown cyber talent through this internship, the state is aiming to build long-term capability and help ensure Victoria is equipped to prevent, detect, and respond to evolving cyber threats.