Cyber Security, artificial intelligence, innovation and risk

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Published: 26th November 2024

By Joneil Palenzuela, Senior Advisor and Peter Morichovitis, Principal Advisor, Procurement Office and Professional Advisory

Adapting to the evolving landscape of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), particularly in the realm of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation, requires a comprehensive and strategic approach. For local governments in Queensland to meet community needs effectively while managing risks, they should consider the following steps.

1. Strategic Planning and Vision

Revise or Develop a New Strategic ICT Plan: Revise the long-term ICT strategy that aligns with local government goals and community needs. This plan should outline how AI and ICT will be integrated into services, considering future trends and potential challenges.

Innovation Roadmap: Develop a roadmap for implementing new technologies. This should include a timeline, budget considerations and milestones for incorporating AI and other innovations into government operations.

2. Talent and Skill Development

Ascertain internal capability: Review current ICT and technical staff capacity and capability, ICT operational practice, relevant policies and plans to ensure sustainability of all local government services while developing the Strategic ICT plan.

Invest in Training: Provide ongoing training for ICT staff and other relevant personnel on the latest technologies, cybersecurity practices, and risk management techniques.

Attract Talent: Develop strategies to attract and retain skilled professionals in ICT and cybersecurity roles. This can include offering competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.

3. Collaborate with accredited Stakeholders within the ICT domain

Partnerships with Technology Providers: Work with accredited Australian and Australian defence partner technology vendors and cybersecurity experts to stay updated on the latest tools and best practices. This can include participating in information-sharing networks and collaborative security initiatives.

Inter-Governmental Collaboration: Coordinate with other local governments and state agencies to share insights, resources, and strategies for managing ICT risks and implementing innovative solutions.

4. Regulatory Compliance and Standards

Adhere to Regulations: Ensure compliance with relevant data protection regulations and cybersecurity standards, such as the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) guidelines, Information security policy (IS18) and other Queensland State Cyber security obligations and better practice.

Implement Best Practices: Follow industry best practices for ICT governance, risk management, and cybersecurity. This includes regular audits and adherence to frameworks like ISO 27001 for information security management.

5. Implement Robust Cybersecurity Measures

Adopt a Multi-layered Security Approach: Utilise a combination of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption to protect sensitive data. Regularly update and patch systems to defend against new vulnerabilities.

Conduct Regular Risk Assessments: Continuously assess cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities. This includes penetration testing, threat modelling, and evaluating potential impact on critical infrastructure.

Establish an Incident Response Plan: Develop and regularly update an incident response plan to manage and mitigate the impact of cyber-attacks. This plan should include procedures for communication, recovery, and legal compliance.

6. Leverage AI and Automation

AI for Operational Efficiency: Implement AI tools to streamline administrative tasks, improve data analysis, and enhance decision-making. For instance, AI can help in predictive maintenance of infrastructure or in analysing trends for better service delivery.

Ethical AI Use: Ensure that AI applications are developed and used ethically, with clear guidelines for transparency, accountability, and privacy. This includes safeguarding personal data and avoiding biases in AI algorithms.

7. Resilience and Recovery Planning

Build Resilient Systems: Design ICT systems to be resilient against disruptions, including cyber-attacks. This involves using redundant systems, conducting regular backups, and testing recovery procedures.

Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of continuous improvement by regularly reviewing and updating policies, procedures, and technologies based on emerging threats and lessons learned from incidents.

Manage and Maintain an ICT Risk Register. Ensure a schedule and relevant venue to discuss cybersecurity incidents, work arounds, resolutions and fix on a periodic basis to ensure planning and readiness and resilience to meet cyber-criminal attacks.

8. Community Engagement and Education

Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the community about cybersecurity risks and best practices. Promote awareness through workshops, seminars, and online resources.

Digital Inclusion Initiatives: Ensure that all community members have access to digital tools and training. This helps in reducing the digital divide and fosters inclusive participation in government services.

By taking these steps, local governments in Queensland can better manage the risks associated with ICT and AI while effectively leveraging these technologies to enhance community services and overall operational efficiency.

For more information on the Procurement Office support services we can provide your organisation, contact Joneil Palenzuela, Senior Advisor and Peter Morichovitis, Principal Advisor, Procurement Office and Professional Advisory