A statement from Cisco said the partnership would expand the National Industry Innovation Network which is focused on how digital technologies can help in Australia’s economic and social challenges.

"Cyber security is a major challenge for us at every level, and certainly for industry, government and universities – therefore, it is equally a major source of new jobs and innovation," University of Canberra vice-chancellor Professor Paddy Nixon said.

"There is enormous scope for Australia to improve its resilience against cyber attacks including the use of advanced digital technologies.

“Improving Australia’s cyber resilience will require action on many fronts: industry-driven research, applied innovation, and a focus on meeting current and future demand for specialist skills.

"The University of Canberra is looking forward to working with Cisco and other industry and education partners to tackle some of the nation’s most pressing challenges related to cyber security, and digital adoption more broadly.”

Alicia Payne, MP, Federal Member for Canberra; Professor Lucy Johnston, Office of the DVC Research and Enterprise, University of Canberra; Reg Johnson, director, Education and Strategic Industries, Cisco Australia & New Zealand; Ben Dawson; Professor Janine Deakin; Kumudu Munasinghe, head of School – IT and Systems, University of Canberra and interim Cisco Research Chair – Innovation Central Canberra; and Professor Paddy Nixon at the announcement. Supplied

As part of the partnership, the two organisations will join the National Industry Innovation Network.

Cisco ANZ vice-president Ben Dawson said: "The partnership with the University of Canberra is a strategically important element in terms of what we are trying to achieve with the National Industry Innovation Network.

"Cisco is committed and is investing in strategic partnerships with universities to accelerate the adoption of technology and address major risks to the Australian economy and society.

"The focus on cyber security recognises that protection of data and infrastructure needs to be a national priority. It also acknowledges the important role that Canberra plays from a cyber security policy, skills and operations perspective, including in defence and national security.

"Cisco’s investment in the National Industry Innovation Network is producing great results in areas as diverse as critical infrastructure, Net Zero, hybrid work and accelerating digital transformation.”

The statement said the research chair in Defence and Critical Infrastructure would be made part of the NIIN.