The state's Innovation Minister Matt Kean said the project would create 170 jobs over the next five years.

The government's Jobs for NSW has invested $1.67 million to support the centre, which is said to be BT's first such facility outside the UK.

“This facility is a major boost for our economy and will be a real time nerve-centre protecting large enterprises, industries, governments and even nations from cyber attack,” Kean said.

NSW Innovation Minister Matt Kean with BT Security chief executive Mark Hughes and other officials at the announcement.

“This operation will help keep Australia’s best cyber security talent here in NSW and nurture our next generation of specialists to ensure we remain a regional leader in this fast growing industry.

“I’m confident job opportunities offered by BT will also act as an incentive for Australian citizens currently working overseas to come back home and bring their highly valuable skills with them.”

BT Security chief executive Mark Hughes said the centre presented an opportunity to tap into local cyber security talent, and address a major skills shortage seen in both the UK, and elsewhere.

“Never before has cyber security been more important and we see potential for growth not only in NSW and Australia, but further afield,” he said.

“This facility will be a cornerstone of our global cyber security capabilities and help us stay ahead in this fast moving space.”

Photo: courtesy NSW Department of Industry