Event overview
In 2026, cyber security in Aotearoa is no longer a siloed function—it’s a shared responsibility across leadership, operations and the entire digital ecosystem. With artificial intelligence accelerating the pace and scale of threats, agencies must adopt proactive, intelligence-led approaches to secure public systems, uphold citizen trust and maintain service continuity.
This year’s showcase will address the urgent need to future-proof public infrastructure and services by building cyber resilience into the core of government strategy. From evolving compliance requirements and privacy reform, to rising ransomware risk and AI-enabled attacks on operational tech, the event will offer practical strategies to prepare for what’s next.
Through strategic discussion and case-led insights, this Showcase will explore how Victoria’s public sector can strengthen its cyber foundations while adapting to emerging risk vectors.
Join senior government leaders, policy makers, and cybersecurity specialists to explore:
- How to embed a security-first culture across departments
- Strategic investments to modernise and future-proof defences
- Best-practice approaches to assessing and improving cyber maturity
This vital event will equip public sector organisations with actionable strategies, real-world case studies, and opportunities to collaborate on lifting the collective cyber posture across Aotearoa
Lead the charge toward a safer, more resilient digital government, registrations open soon.
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Who will be there?
Gain insights into leadership in cybersecurity, exploring advanced solutions in Information Security, Cyber Defence, and securing public sector operations.
- Increase the maturity of your cyber threat intelligence capability to improve risk-informed decision making around threats to government systems
- Progress the ability to prevent and prepare for, as well as respond to and recover from, cyber security incidents including insider threats, through capability and capacity uplift across people, process, and technology
- Enhance your security posture through increased monitoring and incident response capabilities to protect government data
- Progress the ability to prevent and prepare for, as well as respond to and recover from, cyber security incidents including insider threats, through capability and capacity uplift across people, processes and technology
- Bolster security operational capability for the whole of government services and establish a strong risk-based approach to the security risk management of vendors and the government's supply chain.
- Activate widespread agency adoption of contemporary network security approaches, including zero-trust network principles for government systems and applications.
Information Management and Privacy Leaders
- Foster cyber talent and support the hiring of trainees and graduates in cyber security and related fields
- Activate collaboration, engagement and a common vision for cyber security across industry, academia, education, and government
- Drive a culture of cyber security through education and awareness to enhance protection and resilience
2025 Featured speakers
Hon Judith Collins
Attorney-General, Minister of Defence, Minister for Digitising Government, Minister for the Public Service, Minister Responsible for the GCSB, Minister Responsible for the NZSIS and Minister for Space, New Zealand
Jared Licht
Former Chief Information Security Officer, New Zealand Defence Force
Jonathan Wilkins
Chief Information Security Officer, Ministry for Primary Industries
Ashley Archibald
Chief Information Security Officer, Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake
Adwin Singh
Cyber Security D/L - CISO Office, Inland Revenue
Yolanda Wilke
Domain Lead, Chief Information Security Office, Inland Revenue Department
Tracks at a glance
Governance, Strategy and Risk
The Governance, Strategy and Risk Track sets the stage for leaders to explore how government can strengthen its security posture in an environment shaped by rapid technological change, complex supply chains and evolving threats. With a focus on strategy, oversight and practical frameworks, this track examines how agencies can embed robust governance and risk management into everyday decision-making. Sessions will unpack the opportunities and risks of emerging technologies such as AI, explore how to close blind spots in third-party and supply chain security and consider how secure-by-design approaches can guide transformation. Speakers will also discuss the critical human element of cyber resilience, including addressing cyber fatigue, applying behavioural science to awareness programs and empowering staff as the first line of defence. Through keynotes, panels and interactive discussions, participants will gain insights into moving beyond compliance to build confidence, agility and resilience in their cyber governance and risk strategies.
Detection and Response Track
The Detection and Response Track explores how government can strengthen resilience by detecting threats earlier and responding with speed, clarity and confidence. As cyber incidents grow more frequent and complex, this track highlights the strategies, technologies and human factors that enable agencies to anticipate, contain and recover from attacks while maintaining critical services for citizens. Sessions will examine lessons learned from real-world incidents and the importance of planning ahead to ensure response strategies are effective under pressure. Participants will hear perspectives on emerging risks such as machine-driven attacks and the critical role of identity in securing access across increasingly borderless environments. Expert panels will discuss how to modernise incident response plans, reduce time-to-response and align agency practices with national guidance and recovery priorities. The track also looks at how to operationalise threat intelligence—moving from data to action by breaking down silos between technical teams, leadership and policy. Together, these discussions will provide practical insights to help agencies build stronger detection capabilities, streamline response and protect the trust and safety of communities.
Why attend?
Actionable Insights
Gain valuable insights from keynotes, case studies, and expert panels. Leave with actionable strategies and knowledge to apply directly to your agency’s cybersecurity journey.
Fostering Collaboration
Participate in interactive sessions designed to foster collaboration across agencies. Work together on shared challenges, learn best practices, and explore solutions that drive collective impact.
Unmatched Networking
Meet and connect with fellow government leaders, innovators, and industry experts. Build relationships and grow your professional network with peers dedicated to advancing and protecting public service.
Vendors, boost your presence
Becoming a partner at the Government Cyber Security Showcase Aotearoa offers unique opportunities to connect with decision-makers, showcase innovative solutions, and align with transformative public sector goals. As a partner, you’ll have access to influential government leaders, providing a valuable platform to demonstrate your expertise and contribute to critical conversations on public sector modernisation.
With a focus on Victoria’s specific needs, partnership enables you to collaborate directly with key players, co-develop solutions for the state’s challenges, and reinforce your commitment to advancing government services in impactful ways.
Ready to register?
Registration is free for government