Queensland hackathon tackles rising cybercrime with new talent push

ANZ, Griffith University, Amazon Web Services and Queensland Police have launched a two-day hackathon in Brisbane to address the increasing threat of cybercrime in Queensland.

The initiative brings together local students, academics and industry professionals who will collaborate across a series of realistic cybercrime scenarios designed to improve cyber resilience and advance local tech talent. The event has been prompted by recent findings indicating that Queensland holds a disproportionate share of the national cybercrime burden. Of the 87,400 national cybercrime reports made to ReportCyber in 2023-2024, about 30% were attributed to Queensland alone.

The hackathon gives student teams the chance to develop critical skills by simulating cyber-attacks, responding in real-time and building practical solutions. Throughout the event, participants are supported by mentors from ANZ, Griffith University experts and officers from the Queensland Police.

Pathway to employment

Incentivising participation, ANZ has committed to offering internships to the overall winners, directly linking education with workforce opportunities and supporting a pipeline of skilled cyber professionals in the state.

Bruce Rush, ANZ Acting Group Executive for Australia Retail and Managing Director, Queensland, described the event as a targeted response to the vulnerabilities posed by evolving cyber threats and as a reinforcement of ANZ's commitment to Queensland.

"This Hackathon is more than a competition - it's a strategic investment in Queensland's digital future that will build a local future-ready workforce. Students will gain hands-on experience in responding to cyber threats, while building the skills and mindset needed to protect our communities. Cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing threats facing Australians today. Through this Hackathon, we're empowering students to think critically, respond swiftly, and stay ahead of emerging risks. Partnering with AWS and Griffith University ensures we're combining global expertise with local talent to build a safer digital future - staying a huge step ahead of this evolving issue," said Mr Rush.

Data from the latest Australian Cyber Security Centre Annual Cyber Threat Report shows that a new cybercrime report is made approximately every six minutes. The 26,220 reports attributed to Queensland highlight a particular vulnerability in the state and reinforce the need for local investment in digital security and resilience.

Strategic partnerships

The hackathon represents the first visible outcome of ANZ's strategic partnerships with Griffith University and The University of Queensland, relationships announced after ANZ's acquisition of Suncorp Bank. These partnerships are focused on furthering Queensland's development in research, training and workforce capabilities across key growth areas such as cybersecurity, digital innovation, ESG and sustainable finance.

Mr Rush emphasised the significance of these efforts.

"We are deeply committed to unlocking the full potential of the Queensland economy. These collaborations allow us to tap into Queensland's deep well of academic expertise and emerging talent, helping industries and communities thrive in an increasingly digital world," said Mr Rush.

Developing broader skills

Griffith University, which has a strong track record in digital innovation and fraud prevention, plays a central role in the event's education component. Bronwyn Harch, Griffith University Vice President Industry and External Engagement Professor, highlighted the importance of building both technical and interpersonal abilities when preparing future workforces for cybercrime prevention.

"The Hackathon gives students the tools and experience they need to protect Australians in a rapidly evolving digital landscape," Professor Harch said.

The hackathon scenario work is complemented by a series of mini-lectures delivered by Griffith University experts, AWS and Queensland Police representatives. These sessions address themes such as the psychology of cybercrime and practical risk management strategies, expanding the educational impact for both students and ANZ employees involved. The intention is to deepen understanding of cyber threats and cultivate a mindset of vigilance throughout the participating organisations.

The event aims to produce both practical outcomes in the short term and a stronger, workforce-ready cohort of cyber professionals for the future, drawing on the strengths of academic and industry collaboration within Queensland.