The Morrison Government has today released the Critical Technology Supply Chain Principles, to support businesses of all sizes securely and confidently adopt and develop the critical technologies that will drive Australia’s economic recovery and future growth.
Minister for Home Affairs Karen Andrews said the voluntary principles would give businesses and consumers the confidence to take up, invest in, and further develop critical emerging technologies – such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, blockchain, and algorithmic automation.
“These principles come at a vital time – both for Australia and for our critical industries. We face unprecedented threats from a range of malicious cyber actors, growing geo-strategic uncertainty, and are increasingly reliant on technologies that can be hacked, held to ransom, or otherwise disrupted,” Minister Andrews said.
“Alongside important legislation currently before the Senate to support and assist critical industries confront cyberattacks, wide adoption of these new principles will safeguard Australia’s security and prosperity for years to come.
“The Morrison Government will always benefit, not burden industry. That’s why we’ve worked in close partnership with industry to co-design the Principles, ensuring they are fit for purpose and meet industry’s needs.
“The Australian Government will lead by example and use the Principles in its own decision-making practices.”
The ten supply chain principles are grouped under three pillars: security-by-design; transparency; and autonomy and integrity. The principles were developed in partnership with a range of stakeholders, including industry, non-government organisations, state and territory governments, and the community.
The voluntary Critical Technologies Supply Chain Principles can be read in full on the Department of Home Affairs website.