This award celebrates an individual who goes beyond the expectations of their role to advocate for and drive the adoption of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity. Recognising both established leaders and rising stars, this category honours those who are pioneering AI-driven security solutions, shaping ethical AI practices, and championing the role of AI in strengthening cyber resilience. The award also acknowledges those who actively support and empower women and non-binary individuals in cybersecurity, fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking AI-driven security industry.

Nomination Questions:

• • How does your nominee exhibit leadership in advocating for AI in cybersecurity? Describe their influence within the industry or organisation and their role in driving AI adoption, innovation, or ethical AI practices.

  • In what ways has your nominee championed and empowered women and non-binary individuals in AI and cybersecurity? Provide specific examples of mentorship, advocacy, or initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion.

  • Describe the most significant outcomes resulting from your nominee’s work. Provide concrete examples of how their contributions have improved cybersecurity through AI applications, policy influence, or industry advancements.

  • Highlight the challenges your nominee had to overcome in achieving these outcomes. Discuss the obstacles they faced—technical, ethical, or systemic—and how they navigated them.

  • How is your nominee demonstrating innovation and excellence in AI for cybersecurity? Offer examples showcasing their creative, forward-thinking solutions, research, or strategic initiatives that push the boundaries of AI in security.

  • Why do you believe this champion deserves the award? Consider the quality, scale, and impact of their achievements. What sets them apart as an outstanding advocate for AI in cybersecurity?

The “Best in Quantum in Cyber Champion” award recognises outstanding individuals, organisations, or initiatives in Australia that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation at the intersection of quantum computing and cybersecurity. This award honors those who have made significant strides in leveraging quantum technologies to enhance cybersecurity defenses, address emerging threats, and contribute to the advancement of quantum-safe cryptographic practices.

Nomination Questions:

• Provide an overview of the nominee’s key initiatives at the intersection of quantum computing and cybersecurity. Outline specific projects, research, or implementations that showcase a commitment to advancing both fields.
• How has the nominee’s work influenced the cybersecurity landscape in the context of quantum computing? 
• Share examples of how the nominee has innovatively applied quantum technologies to enhance cybersecurity measures. Highlight any novel approaches, algorithms, or solutions that demonstrate a forward-thinking mindset.
• Describe the nominee’s efforts in collaborating with the cybersecurity and quantum computing communities. Highlight partnerships, knowledge-sharing initiatives, or engagement with stakeholders that have fostered collaboration between the two domains.
• Discuss the nominee’s contributions to quantum-safe cryptography. Outline any developments, implementations, or advocacy for cryptographic practices that are resilient against quantum attacks.
• Provide quantifiable metrics or qualitative evidence that illustrates the impact of the nominee’s quantum initiatives on overall cybersecurity posture. This could include improvements in resilience, threat detection, or other relevant security metrics.
• Detail how the nominee has contributed to educating and raising awareness about the intersection of quantum computing and cybersecurity. Discuss any outreach programs, educational initiatives, or public awareness campaigns undertaken.

Excellence in Secure Coding Award

This award recognises an outstanding individual, regardless of gender identity (female or non-binary), who has demonstrated exceptional expertise in the development of software for security applications. Whether in protection or detection, serving as a team leader or a hands-on coder, their achievements must be applied and demonstrable.

Nomination Questions:

• Provide details of the project(s) that, in your view, qualify the candidate for this award. Highlight the significance of their contributions to secure coding.
• Describe the candidate’s role in the nominated project. Whether as a team leader or hands-on coder, explain their specific responsibilities and contributions.
• Share the main benefits and outcomes achieved through the candidate’s involvement in the project. Discuss the positive impact of their secure coding expertise.
• Outline the main challenges faced during the project and how the candidate navigated these obstacles to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Explore what the candidate loves most about coding in the security industry. What motivates and inspires them in their work within the realm of secure coding?
• How does the organisation/company plan to build on the candidate’s project/projects? Discuss future initiatives or developments inspired by the nominee’s contributions.
• Summarise what sets the candidate apart and makes them truly deserving of the Excellence in Secure Coding Award. Highlight the unique qualities that distinguish them as a leader in secure coding.

Cybersecurity Advocacy and Rising Star Achievement Award

This award marks the convergence of two prestigious distinctions: ‘IT Security Champion’ and ‘The One to Watch in IT Security.’ Designed to shine a spotlight on an individual who transcends the conventional expectations of their role, this recognition honors those actively supporting, championing, and empowering women and non-binary individuals in the dynamic realm of Cybersecurity. In addition, this accolade extends to someone deemed a rising star, symbolising significant contributions to the industry with the promise of even more remarkable achievements in the future. Nominees for this category are celebrated for their exceptional contributions and achievements, showcasing diverse talents that position them as true advocates for Cybersecurity.

Nomination Questions:

• How does your nominee exhibit leadership in advocating for cybersecurity, either within the industry or your organization? In what ways have they actively championed and empowered women and non-binary individuals in Cybersecurity?
• Share the achievements of your nominee that exemplify unrealized and unique potential or have significantly influenced the industry or your organization. Provide specific examples of their accomplishments that stand out.
• Describe the most significant outcomes resulting from your nominee’s actions. Provide specific instances where their efforts have led to positive transformations or advancements.
• Highlight the challenges your nominee had to overcome in achieving these outcomes. Discuss their strategies for navigating and surmounting these challenges.
• How is your nominee demonstrating innovation and excellence in the cybersecurity industry? Offer specific examples showcasing their creative and forward-thinking contributions.
• Why do you believe this champion deserves the award? Consider aspects such as the quality, scale, and difficulty of their achievements. What distinguishes them as an outstanding Cybersecurity Advocate?

Australia’s Exemplary Leader in Protective Security Award

This award celebrates an exceptional individual who epitomises excellence, innovation, and leadership in the dynamic field of protective security. Honoring the achievements of a formidable female or non-binary leader, this recognition highlights their diverse skill set, successful delivery of highly valued products or services, and unwavering commitment to excellence across all their business endeavors.

Nomination Questions:

• Provide details of the nominee’s achievements, showcasing instances of excellence, innovation, or leadership that distinguish them as a standout candidate for this award.
• Describe how the nominee has demonstrated leadership or fostered collaboration in their achievements. Explain how these collaborative efforts have benefited others within the protective security industry.
• Discuss the barriers or challenges the nominee has encountered on their journey to outstanding achievement. Outline how they navigated and conquered these obstacles.
• Share information on the recognition the nominee’s achievements have received to date. Highlight any awards, accolades, or acknowledgments they have earned.
• Explain how the nominee is making a difference and leading the way as a strong female or non-binary leader in the protective security/resilience industry. Discuss their impact on the industry.
• Summarise what sets the nominee apart and makes them truly deserving of Australia’s Exemplary Leader in Protective Security Award. Highlight the unique qualities that distinguish them in their field.

Australia’s IT Security Trailblazer Award

This prestigious award celebrates an exceptional female or non-binary individual who stands at the forefront of the IT security industry, serving as a trailblazer and inspiration for others. The recipient’s achievements span diverse domains, showcasing exceptional technical skills, pivotal roles in delivering market-leading products or services, widely recognised leadership, meaningful community contributions, and a passionate approach to overcoming industry challenges. The awardee is expected to leave a lasting impact on the IT security industry.

Nomination Questions:

• Provide details of the nominee’s remarkable achievements, emphasising excellence, innovation, leadership, or any combination thereof that positions them as a deserving candidate for this award.
• Describe how the nominee has demonstrated leadership or fostered collaboration in their achievements. Explain the ways in which these collaborative efforts have benefited others within the IT security industry.
• Discuss the barriers or challenges the nominee has faced on their journey to outstanding achievement. Outline how they navigated and surmounted these obstacles.
• Share information on the recognition the nominee’s achievements have received to date. Highlight any awards, accolades, or acknowledgments they have earned.
• Explore why the nominee is so passionate about the work or projects they tackle. What inspires them to engage fervently in their endeavors within the IT security field?
• Summarise what sets the nominee apart and makes them truly deserving of the Australia’s IT Security Trailblazer Award. Highlight the unique qualities that distinguish them in their role as an industry leader.

Every accomplished security leader embarks on their journey as a novice, whether freshly graduated and engaged in formal education, transitioning into the security realm from another profession, or returning to the workforce after a prolonged hiatus. This award is designed to acknowledge an outstanding student who is already making significant contributions, leaving a lasting impact on the industry, and displaying substantial potential for assuming a leadership role in the future.

Entrants are encouraged to respond thoughtfully to the following questions, as the evaluation process focuses exclusively on these responses. The nominee’s chances of recognition depend entirely on the quality of their answers. Self-nominations are accepted, and responses to each question should be confined to a concise 300 words.

Furthermore, our commitment to diversity is reflected in our recognition of women and non-binary individuals across various categories. To facilitate an inclusive nomination process, kindly provide the nominee’s pronouns if known, ensuring that every deserving individual receives due consideration.

• Provide a synopsis of their current position and outline the path they took to attain this role.
• Detail the obstacles they have successfully surmounted on their journey to their current professional standing.
• Elaborate on specific accomplishments that serve as tangible evidence of their potential for future leadership within the industry.
• Describe their engagement with the security sector beyond their primary responsibilities in their current role.
• If self-nominating, outline their strategic plans that signify their potential for leadership within the industry.
• Share their perspectives on what aspects of the security industry resonate with them the most and articulate why they are driven to continue making a meaningful impact.

This recognition celebrates programs dedicated to supporting young women and non-binary individuals during the initial phases of their cybersecurity careers. These programs, whether through educational initiatives or experiential activities, strive to inform, inspire, and encourage participation in the security industry. Evaluation criteria include the program’s effectiveness in fostering passion for cybersecurity, assisting in overcoming challenges, and educating participants about the experiences of women in the security field.

Nominate a program by answering the questions below. Keep in mind that responses to these questions are the sole basis for judging entries. Self-nominations are permitted. If known, please provide the nominee’s pronouns.

Q1: Program Details

• Describe the program you are nominating.
• What are its primary goals and objectives?
• How long has the program been operational?
• How many women and non-binary individuals have participated in the program?

Q2: Addressing Challenges

• In what ways does the program assist women in overcoming challenges?
• Can you outline the specific mechanisms or strategies employed to achieve this?

Q3: Impact and Benefits

• Provide examples of how women and non-binary individuals have benefited from the program.
• Share specific instances or success stories that highlight the positive impact on participants’ lives.
• Describe any notable outcomes or achievements resulting from the program’s initiatives.

Champions of Change in Cybersecurity Award

Formerly recognised as the ‘Male Champion of Change,’ this distinguished award now celebrates both male and non-binary champions of change actively committed to dismantling entrenched gender-based discrimination and bias within their workplace. These champions also play a pivotal role in promoting equality throughout the Cybersecurity industry. Awardees will be those who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to and achieved significant milestones in fostering inclusivity and gender equality.

Nomination Questions:

• Describe the nominee’s formal role in the industry and outline specific initiatives they have undertaken to address gender-related issues, both within and outside your organisation.
• Provide indicators of the success of the nominee’s achievements. Include details on sustainable changes within their organisation and whether their initiatives have been adopted by others in the industry.
• Outline the challenges the nominee has faced in executing their championing initiatives. Describe how they navigated and surmounted these challenges.
• Share specific examples of how women have benefited from the nominee’s initiatives. Highlight positive outcomes and improvements directly resulting from their efforts.
• Explore the motivations that led the nominee to become a champion of change. For self-nominations, elucidate the personal commitment and driving factors behind their advocacy for gender equality.