Australia issues cybersecurity guidance on quantum computing risks
Australia’s Cyber Security Centre has adopted new guidance outlining the cybersecurity implications of quantum computing and encouraging early preparation for post-quantum risks.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre adopted guidance addressing the potential impact of quantum computing on cybersecurity.
The document explains how quantum computing differs from classical computing and highlights the potential future threat that advanced quantum systems could pose to existing encryption methods, particularly asymmetric cryptography. It warns that once cryptographically relevant quantum computers become available, certain current security protocols could be vulnerable.
The guidance identifies key risks, including “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks, in which encrypted data is collected today and decrypted in the future when quantum capabilities improve. It also notes supply-chain vulnerabilities, risks linked to cloud-based quantum services, and shortages of specialised expertise.
The recommendations apply to small and medium-sized enterprises, large organisations, critical infrastructure operators, and government bodies that rely on cryptography, cloud services, or high-performance computing. Organisations are encouraged to prepare for a transition to post-quantum cryptography, strengthen access controls and network segmentation, improve supply-chain assurance, and develop relevant technical skills.
