The Public Sector Podcast: Diversity in Cyber Security: Insights on the retention of women in the workplace

Insights from an in-depth investigation into women’s roles in cybersecurity and strategies to foster a more diverse and robust cyber talent pool.

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Heather Dailey 23 June 2025
The Public Sector Podcast: Diversity in Cyber Security: Insights on the retention of women in the workplace

Episode Overview:

In this episode we are joined by Jacqui Loustau (Executive Director of the Australian Women in Security Network) and Professor Matthew Warren (Director of the RMIT Centre for Cyber Security Research and Innovation) for an eye-opening conversation on advancing gender diversity in Australia’s cybersecurity sector. This episode unpacks the findings from a comprehensive study on the representation and retention of women in cybersecurity—and the steps needed to build a more inclusive, resilient cyber workforce.


Key Topics Covered:

  • State of Gender Diversity in Cybersecurity: Current statistics reveal that women make up only 17% of Australia’s cyber workforce—and how that’s changing.

  • Research Findings: Insights from the Australian Women in Security Network and RMIT’s multi-phase study on barriers, motivations, and opportunities for women in cyber.

  • Organisational Challenges: How workplace culture, lack of flexibility, and pay gaps impact retention and career progression.

  • Solutions & Strategies: Recommendations for building an inclusive environment, from flexible work arrangements to mentorship programs and beyond.

  • Industry Collaboration: How government, industry, and educational institutions can work together to drive meaningful change.

  • Innovative Initiatives: Highlights of programs helping women transition into technical and leadership roles in cybersecurity.


Key Takeaways:

💡 Retaining women in cybersecurity requires more than recruitment—it needs inclusive work cultures and clear pathways for advancement.
💡 Mentorship and flexible work arrangements can break down barriers and support career growth.
💡 Small and medium enterprises also benefit from partnering with gender diversity programs, building a more resilient sector overall.


Why You Should Listen:

This episode is essential for cybersecurity leaders, HR professionals, and policymakers who want to understand how to bridge the gender gap in tech. Learn how data-driven research, inclusive practices, and collaborative programs are shaping a more diverse and effective cybersecurity workforce—and why that matters for Australia’s future.

Communities
Workforce, Skills and Capability
Regions
Australia Australia

Published by

Heather Dailey Content Strategist, Public Sector Network