Despite Australia facing a persistent cybersecurity skills shortage, many graduates and newcomers are finding it difficult to secure their first jobs and make cybersecurity careers. A report from AustCyber revealed that in 2022, Australia’s cybersecurity workforce numbered 125,791, with 51,309 of those holding dedicated cybersecurity roles. By 2030, an additional 85,000 positions are expected to be needed to meet the sector’s growing demands. However, job seekers struggle to find entry-level opportunities, with job market tracker AuCyberExplorer estimating 16,734 job openings this year.
Graduates like Jane Rathbone, who retrained in cybersecurity, have faced numerous rejections. Even after earning a degree, she was told it wouldn’t guarantee her an entry-level job. Another tech graduate, Munopa Rukure, applied for over 150 roles before securing a position at Amazon Web Services. According to Jed Gladwin, founder of StraightUp, a cybersecurity recruitment agency, such experiences are common. Despite the perceived talent shortage, entry-level roles remain scarce, with many companies seeking experienced professionals.
Choosing the Right Path to Stand Out in Cybersecurity Career
To enhance job prospects, experts emphasize the importance of choosing the right education and certification. Richard Buckland, a professor at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), recommends pursuing specialized studies that align with clear career goals. Buckland suggests avoiding generic certifications and instead focusing on comprehensive courses that teach both technical and analytical skills. He emphasizes the need to “think like an attacker” to better defend against cyber threats, urging students to pursue an education that integrates real-world scenarios and collaboration.
Courses that blend technical expertise with other disciplines, such as psychology and law, are also highly recommended. For example, UNSW’s upcoming Bachelor of Cyber Security will include components from these fields, preparing graduates for a more holistic cybersecurity approach. Kris Rosentreter, a cybersecurity recruitment consultant, advises students to look for certifications specific to the tools used in their desired cybersecurity roles, such as cloud security platforms like Azure.
Alternative Pathways and Networking for Success in Cybersecurity Career
For those struggling to break into cybersecurity directly, experts suggest alternative pathways. Gaining experience in related fields like system administration or technical support can provide a stepping stone to a cybersecurity role. Transitioning from fields like sales or marketing has also been successful for some, especially in cybersecurity sales. Networking is another crucial element. Attending industry events, webinars, and grassroots meetups can offer valuable connections and insights. Platforms like LinkedIn provide opportunities to engage with professionals and showcase achievements.
Job seekers are encouraged to participate in hands-on learning experiences like hackathons and challenge sites. Volunteering with non-profit organizations or securing internships can also provide practical experience, which is highly valued by employers. Persistence is key in this competitive field, as applicants are advised to continually improve their resumes, attend events, and seek out new opportunities. With dedication and perseverance, graduates can eventually secure their break into the cybersecurity industry.
Also Read:- Career Switches into Cybersecurity: A Growing Trend
