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Australia’s cybersecurity startups face funding hurdles despite global demand

Lean but ambitious, Australia’s cybersecurity firms export expertise worldwide—yet funding shortages threaten their next phase. Can they turn resilience into expansion?

This is a presentation and here we can see vehicles on the road and we can see some text written.
This is a presentation and here we can see vehicles on the road and we can see some text written.

Australia’s cybersecurity startups face funding hurdles despite global demand

Australia’s cyber security sector remains small but active, with most businesses operating on a modest scale. Despite steady spending and global demand, local startups have struggled to match the early-stage funding seen in countries like Singapore and the UK. The industry now faces challenges after years of slowing growth.

The vast majority of Australian cyber security firms are small enterprises. Around 88% employ fewer than 100 people, reflecting a sector dominated by lean operations. Yet, 43% of these businesses export their services globally, showing international demand for their expertise.

Australia’s cyber security industry continues to expand, driven by rising domestic and global spending. While small firms dominate the market, their ability to export suggests resilience. The sector’s future will depend on overcoming funding gaps and reversing the recent decline in growth.

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