International

Inaugural ROK-Australia Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogue

andrew.mackay — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 01:16:56 +0000

Inaugural ROK-Australia Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogue andrew.mackay Fri, 2021-12-10 12:16

Media Release

The inaugural Australia-Republic of Korea (ROK) Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogue was held virtually on 9 December 2021. The Dialogue was held under the auspices of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation, signed by Foreign Ministers on 13 September 2021.

Australia and the ROK are currently celebrating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Our relations are underpinned by shared values and interests, complementary economies and strong people-to-people links. We both seek to support an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Australia and the ROK reaffirmed their commitment to an open, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful cyberspace, based on shared democratic values to achieve common goals of security and prosperity.

Australia and the ROK reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and security in cyberspace based on existing international law, voluntary and non-binding norms of responsible state behaviour, practical confidence building measures, and cooperative capacity building measures.

The two sides discussed a wide range of cyber and critical technology issues, including enhancing information sharing; bilateral cooperation to raise awareness and build capacity across the region; driving shared economic prosperity and security by shaping the design, development and use of secure cyber and critical technologies; and, elevating multilateral cooperation on norms and standards.

Both countries agreed to work together to coordinate on outcomes for capacity building and in multilateral forums. They agreed to share information on issues of mutual interest, including supporting cybercrime investigations, critical technology standards, and engagement with the private sector and academia.

Both sides recognised the importance of working together with the technology industry to ensure the design, deployment and use of secure, resilient technology in the region. The participants further recognised the need to establish and strengthen links between the government, private sector and academia to advance research and development on cyber and critical technology issues.

The Australian delegation was led by the Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Dr. Tobias Feakin. The Korean delegation was led by the Ambassador for International Security Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lee Choong-myon.

Inaugural ROK-Australia Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogue

International Women’s Day 2023 - “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”

jeevan.aryal — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 23:09:04 +0000

International Women’s Day 2023 - “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality” jeevan.aryal Wed, 2023-03-08 10:09

This International Women’s Day, the Cyber and Critical Tech Cooperation Program (CCTCP) celebrates the important work our delivery partners are doing to create a more inclusive and equitable cyber environment for all, recognising the significant opportunities and risks that the internet poses for gender equality. The CCTCP currently funds ten projects targeting gender equality in the Indo-Pacific region and supports 30+ partners to mainstream gender, disability, and social inclusion across their cyber and critical tech development projects to achieve a more secure, stable, equitable and inclusive internet environment necessary to achieve sustainable development in the region.
The expansion of mobile networks and adoption of new technologies in the Indo-Pacific presents exciting opportunities for economic and human development, and for marginalised groups’ organising and activism in the region. However, women and girls – particularly those facing multiple disadvantages due to poverty, disability, sexuality, ethnicity, or other factors – are at risk of being left behind in the race to adopt technology and get online.

Around the world, women are less likely to have meaningful online access, be cyber literate, and consequently work in the sector. They are less likely to be taught ICT in schools than boys and can be dissuaded from pursuing related careers due to masculine stereotypes of tech jobs, unfriendly workplace cultures and the lack of visibility and advancement of women in the sector. Take for example, the experience of a CCTCP project participant that said, “The nature of my job at a computer system centre means that the majority of the employees are men. Clients frequently believe that women working in computer systems and networks cannot perform as well as men”. The limited representation of women is not limited to technical jobs in the sector, it can also be seen in cyber-related legal and governance roles, with implications for inclusion in standards and policy settings.

A higher risk of online harm also means women are less likely to meaningfully engage online and benefit from emerging services, tools, information, education, economic opportunities and networks. Levels of cyber harassment, stalking, doxing, revenge porn, discrimination and physical threats can be up to 3 times higher for women than men. CCTCP partner, ABC International Development, who worked in Tonga and Vanuatu to promote online safety for young girls and women through their project ‘Girls Online (GO!): Participating meaningfully and safely in cyberspace', shared a quote from a workshop participant, showing how existing bias and discrimination can amplify misogyny online; “There was a social media post about a girl who had jumped out from a bus trying to escape at 10.00pm from a cruel driver and a guy was commenting negatively on this. He said, ‘you are a girl, you should stay quiet at home. You should make the right choice’".

According to CCTCP partner Deakin University, technology-based forms of domestic violence are increasing, which infringes on women’s cyber security, physical safety, and their digital participation. The university is working with Pacific partners in Fiji, Tonga and Vanuatu to document the prevalence and impact of this phenomenon. Human rights and women’s rights agencies and women human rights defenders are also targeted in online attacks that involve disinformation, misinformation and hate speech aimed at undermining their influence, voice and online participation. One of CCTCP’s partners, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is co-designing training with local partners to support these individuals’ and agencies’ ability to protect, defend and advocate against targeted abuse of this type. Cybercrime legislation, policing, support services and online behaviour change are necessary to reduce these risks and achieve greater cyber security for women and enable equitable and sustainable development.

If women from diverse backgrounds are not involved in the design, development, use and oversight of cyber and critical tech on an equitable basis with men, it is unlikely that products, services, and digital solutions can meet diverse needs and priorities or safeguard the population. Marginalised groups will continue to lag in their access and engagement, which risks further excluding them from economic, social, and cultural life.

The CCTCP will continue to work with partners and networks in the region to progress gender equality, disability and social inclusion in cyber and critical tech through targeted investments, advice and support.

Fifth India-Australia Cyber Policy Dialogue

marta.paddubskaya@cre8ive.com.au — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 00:32:48 +0000

Fifth India-Australia Cyber Policy Dialogue marta.paddubsk… Fri, 2022-11-18 11:32

1. India and Australia convened their fifth Bilateral Cyber Policy Dialogue on 17 November 2022 in New Delhi. The dialogue was co-chaired by Joint Secretary (Cyber Diplomacy Division) Ms. Muanpuii Saiawi from Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India and Dr. Tobias Feakin, Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Government of Australia.

2. The Cyber Policy Dialogue was held under the auspices of the India-Australia Framework Arrangement on Cyber and Cyber-Enabled Critical Technology Cooperation and Plan of Action 2020-2025 for a comprehensive and deeper cyber cooperation.

3. The Indian delegation consisted of senior officials from National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Ministry of Electronics and Information technology (MEITY), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), CERT-In and National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC). The Australian delegation comprised of senior officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Industry Science and Resources, and the Australian Federal Police.

4. The Cyber Policy Dialogue provides a bilateral platform to discuss a range of high-profile issues of mutual interest. Discussions at this Dialogue included strategic priorities, cyber threat assessment, next generation telecommunications including 5G technology, capacity technology capacity building and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, and the latest developments in cyber at the United Nations. Australia and India agreed to explore opportunities for further collaboration with the private sector and academia, including through the Australia-India Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership. Australia and India will jointly conduct a Cyber Bootcamp, as well as Cyber and Tech Policy Exchanges, in collaboration with Indo-Pacific partners.

The sixth India-Australia Cyber Policy Dialogue will be held in 2023.

Australia and PNG sign a new Cyber Cooperation agreement

David.Byrne2 — Thu, 05 May 2022 01:01:30 +0000

Australia and PNG sign a new Cyber Cooperation agreement David.Byrne2 Thu, 2022-05-05 11:01

On 30 March 2022, Dr. Tobias Feakin, Australian Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, and Mr Steven Matainaho, Secretary of Papua New Guinea's Department of ICT (DICT), signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cyber Cooperation between Australia and PNG.

The new agreement builds on a previous cyber security cooperation MoU between PNG and Australia signed in 2018, reinforcing the partnership's focus on enhancing PNG's cyber capacity and working together on cyber affairs. The new MoU paves the way for deepened cooperation to continue building cyber resilience and more broadly supporting a safe, secure, and prosperous PNG, Australia, and Indo-Pacific region.

The signing of the MoU was complemented by a study tour to Australia by representatives from Papua New Guinea's DICT, National ICT Authority (NICTA) and National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). While in Australia, delegates met with several Government departments, including the Digital Transformation Agency, Attorney-General's Department, Department of Finance, Department of Home Affairs, Services Australia, Australian Cyber Security Centre, and the eSafety Commission. Additionally, some delegates met with academic institutions such as the Australian National University (ANU) National Security College and Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT).

Dr Tobias Feakin and Mr Steven Matainaho sign the MOU Cyber Cooperation agreement

Australia and PNG sign a new Cyber Cooperation agreement

Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Government of Australia on Cyber Cooperation

The Government of Papua New Guinea, and the Government of Australia, (hereinafter referred to collectively as "the Participants" and singularly as "the Participant");

Recognising the depth and strength of the economic and strategic relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea, as outlined under the Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership;

Sharing the vision to enhance our bilateral partnership on cyber affairs, at a time when both countries face significant challenges and opportunities in the international cyber environment;

Desiring to promote an open, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful cyberspace, which drives economic prosperity, protects national security and promotes international stability;

Reaffirming their commitment to promote peace and security in cyberspace based on existing international law, voluntary and non-binding norms of responsible state behaviour, practical confidence building measures, and cooperative capacity building;

Recognising as a result of increasing interconnectivity in the region, information systems and networks are now exposed to a growing number of threats from malicious (government and non-government) cyber actors and vulnerabilities which impact on both prosperity and national security;

Recalling and reaffirming the strong cyber security cooperation that has occurred, most recently, through the 2018 Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber Cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia; and

Pursuant to the relevant laws and regulations and international commitments of the Participants;

Have reached the following understandings:

Paragraph 1: Purpose

The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (hereinafter referred to as "MoU") is to promote partnerships and provide a framework of cooperation on cyber affairs and digital economy between the Participants.

Paragraph 2: Guiding Principle

The Participants are committed to developing an enhanced economic and security partnership that supports the development objectives of the Government of Papua New Guinea.

Paragraph 3: Areas of Cooperation

Guided by the development objectives of the Government of Papua New Guinea, the Participants have identified the following areas of cooperation for this MoU:

Coordination and Information Sharing
1. Participants will share views, experiences, lessons learned and best practices on cyber affairs and the digital economy.
2. Participants will coordinate and consult on cyber-related areas of mutual interest and benefit.
Capacity Building and Strengthening Connection
1. Participants will support improved development and understanding of cyber issues across society, including a focus on the needs of women and girls.
2. Participants will support people-to-people connections with a focus on cyber workforce upskilling.
Capability and Process Development
1. Participants will support the development and implementation of systemic governance arrangements related to cyberspace.
2. Participants will work together on future cyber-related infrastructure needs and technology.

Paragraph 4: Implementing Arrangements

Institutions of the Participants may arrange between themselves the establishment of implementing arrangements, or other mutually determined written arrangements, under this MoU to operationalise cooperation activities.

The arrangements mutually determined upon by the institutions of the Participants will serve to implement the areas of cooperation.

The establishment, finalisation, and implementation of the arrangements under this MoU will be coordinated and by consent of the respective focal points as stipulated in Paragraph 5 of this MoU.

Paragraph 5: Focal Points

The Participants have identified the following focal points as the lead agencies for the purpose of the implementation of this MoU:

1. For Papua New Guinea: Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT)
2. For Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

Cooperation will not be limited to these organisations and will be encouraged by all government organisations of the Participants.

Paragraph 6: Entry into Effect, Duration and Termination

This MoU will come into effect on the date of signature by both Participants and will remain in effect for a period of five (5) years, unless terminated by either Participant giving at least one (1) month's written notice prior to the intended date of termination to the other Participant.

Termination of this MoU will not affect the implementation of activities that were decided upon or any on-going activity prior to the date of termination.

This MoU may be extended at any time within the period it remains in effect by the mutual written consent of the Participants. The Participants will convene one (1) year prior to the agreement’s expiration to determine an extension.

Paragraph 7: Amendment

The Participants may propose an amendment to this MoU by submitting it in writing to the other Participant.

An amendment will be effected only upon the mutual written consent of the Participants.

Paragraph 8: Financial Arrangements

The Participants will bear their own costs associated with the activities and participation under this MoU.

Other financial arrangements may be carried out as mutually determined by the Participants.

Paragraph 9: Settlement of Disputes

Any dispute arising out of the interpretation and implementation of this MoU will be settled amicably by the Participants through mutual consultations and negotiations between the Participants.

Disputes will not be referred to any third party, court or international tribunal.

Paragraph 10: Confidentiality

The Participants commit to protect the confidentiality of information, technology, and/or data exchanged between the Participants under this MoU against unauthorized disclosure in accordance with the Participants domestic laws, regulations, policies, and directives. This does not apply where the information is legally accessible to the public.

Information, technology, and/or data exchanged under this MoU shall not be transmitted to a third party without prior written consent of the other Participants.

In the event of the expiration or termination of this MoU, provisions under this Paragraph shall still apply in terms of the confidentiality of this MoU.

Paragraph 11: Legal status of the MoU

This MoU does not create any legally binding obligations, and does not alter or effect any existing agreements between the Participants.

The Participants acknowledge that this MoU is not an international agreement and will not create legal obligations governed by their respective domestic law or international law.

The terms of this MOU operate subject to, and do not supersede respective international obligations and domestic laws, policies and procedures of the participants.

Improving digital trade opportunities for Australia

CCTCP — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 22:28:26 +0000

Improving digital trade opportunities for Australia CCTCP Fri, 2022-04-01 09:28

The Morrison Government is cutting red tape, improving access to markets and supporting new trade opportunities and jobs through its Digital Trade Strategy launched today.

Clear and high-quality digital trade rules can significantly lower barriers to trade, improve trade efficiencies and facilitate access to markets, creating new trade possibilities for Australia and our region.

The Digital Trade Strategy will guide Australia’s practical action as a leader in digital trade, informing our work to develop digital trade rules which deliver commercial benefits, promote our democratic values and push back against digital protectionism.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said the strategy set out the Morrison Government’s focus on digital trade through trade facilitation, trust, cross-border flows of data, and cooperation.

“Digital trade is predicted to grow to $192 billion by 2030, and improving digital trade will support Australian businesses and Australian jobs,” Mr Tehan said.

“Keeping the global economy open and businesses trading through strong digital trade rules is crucial for Australia’s continued economic recovery and ongoing prosperity.”

Minister for the Digital Economy, Senator the Hon Jane Hume, said digital trade is an important feature of the Morrison Government’s ambition to make Australia a leading digital economy. “The Strategy builds on the Government’s existing data and digital initiatives, including the Digital Economy Strategy, and ensures Australia maintains momentum to keep pace with changing economic conditions and technology.”

The strategy also describes Australia’s important leadership role in digital trade rule making through participation in multilateral forums – including the World Trade Organisation, the OECD, APEC and the G20.

Authorised by The Hon Dan Tehan MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Parliament House, Canberra

The Strategy is guided by the International Cyber and Critical Technology Engagement
Strategy and supports Australia’s Digital Economy Strategy.

The strategy can be found here: https://www.dfat.gov.au/digital-trade-strategy

ASPI report shows how CCTCP and UK Government are implementing UN cyber space norms

David.Byrne2 — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 05:45:49 +0000

ASPI report shows how CCTCP and UK Government are implementing UN cyber space norms David.Byrne2 Thu, 2022-03-24 16:45

ASPI report shows how CCTCP and UK Government are implementing UN cyber space norms

000069417.mp4

CCTCP continue cyber capacity building and practical guidance in the implementation of the UN norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace throughout the ASEAN region. ASPI, in partnership with CCTCP, and the UK Government have released ‘The UN norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace’ report providing an update. The report looks at how states have implemented practices, policies, and activities throughout the ASEAN region.

Joint Statement on the Inaugural India-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Cyber Framework Dialogue

rhody.gleeson — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 02:08:46 +0000

Joint Statement on the Inaugural India-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Cyber Framework Dialogue rhody.gleeson Mon, 2022-02-14 13:08

Media Release

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, welcomed India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, to Melbourne for the Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue and the inaugural India-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Cyber Framework Dialogue on 12 February 2022.

Both Ministers welcomed the elevation of the bilateral cyber cooperation through the Australia-India Framework Arrangement on Cyber and Cyber-Enabled Critical Technology Cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, agreed in June 2020, and appreciated the progress made with the Fourth Australia-India Bilateral Cyber Policy Dialogue, held in July 2021, and the inaugural Joint Working Group on Cyber Security Cooperation, held in June 2021, as well as exchange of views between Secretaries responsible for telecommunications from both countries. They welcomed the scheduling of the inaugural Joint Working Group on Information Communication Technologies in March 2022.

The Ministers recognised cooperation in the areas of cyber governance, cyber security, capacity building, innovation, digital economy, and cyber and critical technologies as an essential pillar of the India-Australia relationship. In this respect, the Centre of Excellence for Critical and Emerging Technology Policy, to be located in Bengaluru India, demonstrates both countries’ long-term commitment to bilateral cooperation in cyber and critical technologies. Minister Jaishankar welcomed the Australian Government’s intention to open a Consulate-General in Bengaluru.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to an open, secure, free, accessible, stable, peaceful, and interoperable cyberspace and technologies that adhere to international law. The Ministers emphasised the way in which technology is designed, developed, governed and used should be informed by our shared democratic values and respect for human rights. They condemned attempts to use cyberspace and cyber-enabled technologies to undermine international peace and stability and committed to working cooperatively to strengthen mutual cooperation in various multilateral fora, including the United Nations, in developing international standards, norms and frameworks for cyberspace and critical and emerging technologies, including through the International Telecommunications Union; the Ad Hoc Committee to Elaborate a Comprehensive International Convention on Countering the Use of Information and Communications Technologies for Criminal Purposes; and consistent with the UN Group of Governmental Experts on Advancing responsible State behaviour in cyberspace in the context of international security; and the UN Open-Ended Working Group on developments in the field of Information Telecommunications in the context of international security. Both Ministers reiterated the importance of diversity, gender equality and women’s empowerment in the design, development and use of cyberspace and technologies.

The Ministers reiterated their commitment to secure, resilient and trusted technology and agreed to work together to address the significant threat of malicious cyber activity by state and non-state actors. They acknowledged the importance of the security and resilience of telecommunications networks and the need to work closely with each other to protect next generation telecommunications networks, including 5G and 6G.

The Ministers emphasised the integral role of cyber and cyber-enabled critical technologies in fostering sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. They recognised the importance of diverse and trusted technology supply chains including trusted sources and products.

Recognising the importance of working collaboratively with international partners, the Ministers agreed to undertake joint engagement with Indo-Pacific partners to collaboratively improve the region’s cyber capabilities to promote a resilient and trusted cyberspace and effective incident response.

Both Ministers looked forward to holding the next India-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Cyber Framework Dialogue in 2023.

Media enquiries

Minister's office: (02) 6277 7500
DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Joint Statement on the Inaugural India-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Cyber Framework Dialogue

New UK-Australia Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership

rhody.gleeson — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 22:54:57 +0000

New UK-Australia Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership rhody.gleeson Fri, 2022-01-21 09:54

Announcement from Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne

Australia has today agreed a Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership with the United Kingdom that will help shape a positive technology environment and maintain an internet that is open, free, peaceful and secure.

I signed the Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership with my counterpart, UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs and Minister for Women and Equalities, the Rt Hon Elizabeth Truss MP in Sydney today.

Given the significant impact that new technologies have on our societies, cooperation on cyber security and critical technologies is an essential part of the modern UK-Australia relationship.

This partnership brings together two long-standing friends and allies who will work together to ensure that we shape a positive technology landscape for all. An open, safe and secure cyberspace and technologies that work for people, not against them, is key to our combined future.

Australia is committed to working with partners such as the UK to challenge malign actors who use technology to undermine freedom and democracy. We will work with allies to maintain an internet environment that is open, free, peaceful and secure, consistent with international law, and which maximises opportunities for economic growth.

Australia and the UK share the goal that technology is used to uphold and protect liberal democratic values, and to benefit our societies, economies and national security.

We will intensify co-operation and delivery around shared opportunities and challenges regarding cyber and critical technology policy through deepened co-operation around four pillars:

tackling malign actors;
promoting our values and positive vision for technology;
strengthening global technology supply chains; and
harnessing technology to solve global challenges.

As first initiatives under the Partnership, the UK and Australia will:

Increase deterrence by raising the costs for hostile state activity in cyberspace – including through strategic co-ordination of our cyber sanctions regimes;
Strengthen the resilience and response capabilities of countries in the Indo-Pacific region to malicious cyber activity via joint capacity building activity. This will include tackling the increasing threat from ransomware through a joint initiative delivered in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime – a valuable step in helping the region to bring an end to criminal activity in cyberspace;
Develop an action plan on global standard-setting to ensure global standards deliver on our security priorities, economic interests and reflect our values;
Advance the Women in Cyber agenda, including through our Women and International Security in Cyber Fellowship.

This partnership brings a practical, values-driven approach to making the most of opportunities in cyberspace and critical tech while imposing greater costs on malign actors who would undermine the region's prosperity and security for their own ends.

https://www.foreignminister.gov.au/minister/marise-payne/media-release/statement-uk-australia-cyber-and-critical-technology-partnership

Media enquiries

Minister's office: (02) 6277 7500
DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Signing of the new Au-UK Cyber and Critical Tech Partnership

Australia and the Republic of Korea sign new MoU on a Digital Cooperation Initiative in Southeast Asia

rhody.gleeson — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 06:39:27 +0000

Australia and the Republic of Korea sign new MoU on a Digital Cooperation Initiative in Southeast Asia rhody.gleeson Tue, 2021-12-14 17:39

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING

BETWEEN

THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE OF AUSTRALIA

AND

THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

ON AN AUSTRALIA-ROK DIGITAL COOPERATION INITIATIVE

IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of Australia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of Korea (hereinafter referred to collectively as the “Participants” and singularly as a “Participant”);

Recognising our leaders’ ambition to further deepen and fulfil the potential of our vibrant, modern relationship by its elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (“CSP”), marking six decades of diplomatic relations;

Desiring to build upon the Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation signed by Foreign Ministers on 13 September 2021;

Sharing a vision for Australia and the Republic of Korea as natural partners for Southeast Asia and ASEAN and recognising the region’s stability and prosperity as indispensable to an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific;

Desiring to promote an open, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful cyberspace, which drives economic prosperity, protects national security and promotes international stability;

Reaffirming the benefits of close collaboration, including on information sharing, developing technical standards, implementing law and norms, protecting existing commitments in multilateral and regional forums, the development and deployment of cyber and critical technologies in the region, and regional awareness and capacity building; and

Pursuant to the relevant laws and regulations and the international commitments of the two countries;

Have reached the following understanding:

Paragraph 1

Purpose

The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (hereinafter referred to as the “Memorandum”) is to operationalise the Participants’ shared priorities in digital, cyber and critical technology under the ROK’s New Southern Policy and Australia’s Indo-Pacific agenda and contribute to regional prosperity and peace in partnership with Southeast Asia and ASEAN. It will build on the Participants’ existing commitment under the Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation.

Paragraph 2

Scope of the Initiative

The Participants will pursue digital, cyber and critical technology cooperation in Southeast Asia under the economic, innovation and technology pillar of the CSP, building on our longstanding links.
The Participants will cooperate in the following areas, and other areas by mutual arrangement, in consultation and partnership with Southeast Asian countries, ASEAN and other key regional stakeholders:

a) Drive shared economic prosperity and security by shaping the design, development and use of secure cyber and critical technology:

working towards collaboration on digital, cyber and critical technology research with Southeast Asian partners;
convening ROK-Australia Industry-Academia Technology Roundtables with Southeast Asian partners to identify new opportunities for digital, cyber and critical technology cooperation; and
expanding existing cooperation with Southeast Asian government officials in international discussions about cyber and critical technology standards, norms, and international law, including exploring mutual development opportunities

b) Elevate multilateral coordination on norms and standards:

Supporting Korean and Australian institutions to collaborate with institutions in South and Southeast Asia to deepen understanding of the application of international law and norms to cyberspace and support confidence building measures in the region.

c) Stimulate bilateral cooperation to raise awareness and build capacity across the region:

exploring opportunities for cooperation on smart cities related to digital, cyber and critical technology cooperation between the ROK, Australia, Southeast Asia and ASEAN; and
identifying and exploring further practical ways to contribute to driving economic prosperity, protecting national security and promoting international stability in the region through the Digital Cooperation Initiative in Southeast Asia.

Paragraph 3

Mechanisms for Cooperation

The Participants will use the following mechanisms to implement the provisions of this Memorandum:

a) Foreign Ministers’ Meetings on Digital, Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation in Southeast Asia.

The Participants will use Foreign Ministers’ Meetings to discuss the implementation of this Memorandum, including in the margins of the biennial Foreign and Defence Ministers’ 2+2.

b) Joint Working Group on Cyber and Critical Technology Capacity Building in Southeast Asia

The Participants will establish a Working Group on Cyber and Critical Technology Capacity Building in Southeast Asia to share information about our respective work in the region and further explore opportunities for cooperation.

c) Action Plan for Digital, Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation in Southeast Asia

The Participants will develop an Action Plan for Digital, Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation in Southeast Asia to be mutually determined, reviewed and updated by senior officials, including at regularly held Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogues.

Paragraph 4

Focal Points

The Participants have identified the following focal points for the purpose of the implementation of this Memorandum, who will coordinate as needed across the relevant government agencies:

for DFAT: the Australian Ambassador for Cyber Affairs & Critical Technology;
for the MOFA: the Korean Ambassador for International Security Affairs.

Paragraph 5

Implementing Arrangements

Arrangements mutually determined by the Participants will serve to implement cooperation under this Memorandum.
The establishment, finalisation, and implementation of the arrangements under this Memorandum will be coordinated by the respective focal points as stipulated in Paragraph 4 of this Memorandum.

Paragraph 6

Financial Arrangements

Each Participant will bear its own costs associated with the activities and participation under this Memorandum.
The Participants’ fulfilment of their commitments under this Memorandum will be subject to the availability of appropriate funds and personnel of the Participants.
Other financial arrangements may be mutually determined by the Participants.

Paragraph 7

Resolution of Differences

Any difference arising out of the interpretation or implementation of this Memorandum will be resolved amicably through mutual consultations and negotiations between the Participants through diplomatic channels.
Differences will not be referred to any third party, court or international tribunal.

Paragraph 8

Confidentiality

Each Participant will protect the confidentiality of information exchanged under this Memorandum against unauthorised disclosure and in accordance with the Participant’s national laws, regulations, policies, or directives. However, this will not apply to cases where the information is publicly available.
Where classified or operationally sensitive information, or information pertinent to national security, is to be disclosed under this Memorandum, the Participant providing the information is responsible for ensuring that guidance is provided to the receiving Participant on handling and protection requirements. Each Participant will endeavour to follow such guidance, and respect requests made on handling and protection requirements regarding the security or sensitivity of the material.
The Participants have mutually decided that this paragraph will continue to apply notwithstanding the expiration or termination of this Memorandum.

Paragraph 9

Amendment

Either Participant may propose an amendment to this Memorandum by submitting it in writing to the other Participant. An amendment will be effected only upon the mutual written consent of the Participants.

Paragraph 10

Legal Status of the Memorandum

This Memorandum does not create any legally binding obligations and does not alter or effect any existing agreements between the Participants.
The Participants acknowledge that this Memorandum is not an international agreement and will not create legal obligations governed by their respective domestic law or international law.
The provisions of this Memorandum operate subject to, and do not supersede, the respective international obligations and domestic laws, policies, and procedures of the two countries.

Paragraph 11

Entry Into Effect, Duration, and Termination

This Memorandum will come into effect on the date of signature by both Participants and will remain in effect for a period of five (5) years, unless terminated by either Participant giving at least one (1) month’s prior written notice of the intended date of termination to the other Participant.
The termination of this Memorandum will not affect the implementation of any ongoing activities or activities that were decided upon prior to the date of termination, unless otherwise jointly decided by the Participants.
This Memorandum may be extended at any time within the period it remains in effect by mutual written consent of the Participants.
Any intent to terminate or extend this Memorandum will be communicated through diplomatic channels.

Signed in duplicate at Canberra on 13 December 2021 in English.

For the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia

For the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea

Justin Hayhurst

Acting Secretary

Choi Jong Kun

1^st Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs

Australia and the Republic of Korea sign new MoU on a Digital Cooperation Initiative in Southeast Asia

New cyber MoUs and launch of Aus-India grants

rhody.gleeson — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 00:14:20 +0000

New cyber MoUs and launch of Aus-India grants rhody.gleeson Fri, 2021-09-24 10:14

A number of international cyber announcements in September show cyber security and critical infrastructure issues are a top foreign policy priority for Australia.

It was a busy month for cyber diplomacy as Australia signed two new memorandums of understanding (MoU) on cyber issues with Indo-Pacific partners while also launching round two of the Australia-India Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership grants program.

Expanded Cyber MoU with Indonesia

On Wednesday, 8 September 2021, Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Dr Tobias Feakin, joined Indonesia’s Lieutenant General (Ret.) Hinsa Siburian, Head of the National Cyber and Crypto Agency(BSSN), in signing an expanded MoU to include emerging cyber technology and increase cooperation between the two countries on cyber issues.

The MoU was further endorsed by Foreign Minister Marise Payne on a visit to Indonesia on the first leg of her trip through the Indo-Pacific on her way to attend the 76^th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Call for Aus/India funded grant proposals

By Saturday, 11 September, Minister Payne was in India for the joint launch of round two of the successful Australia-India Cyber and Critical Technology Partnership (AICCTP) grants program.

The joint initiative backs ideas harnessing cyber and critical technology to support a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

The program is seeking funding for proposals focused on strengthening understanding of ethical frameworks, developing best practice and encouraging the development of technical standards on critical technologies, including quantum computing and artificial intelligence.

First ROK cyber MoU as Australia celebrates 60 years of relations

This year we celebrated the 60^th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Australia and the Republic of Korea (ROK). Six decades of cooperation was marked with a brand new MoU on cyber issues providing a strong foundation for collaboration on current and future cyber matters.

ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chung Eui-yong, and Minister Payne signed the new MoU during her visit on Monday, 13 September, elevating existing cooperation and formalizing regular bilateral Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogues.

Ministers also agreed to hold the inaugural Cyber and Critical Technology Policy Dialogue between senior officials in the near future.

Cyber and critical tech issues were on the agenda for every stop of the Minister’s trip demonstrating how important these issues are to Australia’s foreign policy.

Expanded MoU’s with Indonesia and ROK and the renewed AICCTP grants are a fine example of digital diplomacy in action bringing us closer to achieving a safe, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific enabled by cyberspace and critical technology.

Australia/Indonesia cyber MoU