With cyber threats on the rise across the globe, Australia has taken proactive steps to protect its critical sectors. One of the most important measures introduced by the government is the soci act, also known as the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act.
The SOCI Act plays a key role in strengthening cyber security for industries that keep the country running. But what exactly does it cover, and how does it help safeguard essential services? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is the SOCI Act?
The SOCI Act is an Australian law introduced in 2018 to improve the security and resilience of critical infrastructure. It gives the government more oversight and authority to ensure that essential services are well-protected from serious threats, especially cyber attacks.
Critical infrastructure refers to sectors such as:
- Energy
- Health
- Transport
- Water
- Food supply
- Financial services
- Defence industry
- Communications
Businesses operating in these sectors form the backbone of Australia’s economy, national security, and daily life. Without proper cyber security measures, these services could be vulnerable to disruptions, data breaches, or worse.
Why Cyber Security for Critical Sectors Matters
In recent years, cyber attacks on essential services have become more frequent and damaging. From ransomware attacks on hospitals to data breaches in the financial sector, businesses are facing risks that can cause major operational, financial, and reputational damage.
The SOCI Act is designed to reduce these risks by ensuring that critical sectors:
✔ Understand their responsibilities
✔ Identify potential threats
✔ Take action before incidents happen
✔ Collaborate with government agencies for rapid response
How the SOCI Act Strengthens Cyber Security
Here’s how the SOCI Act helps improve the cyber security posture of Australia’s critical infrastructure:
Mandatory Cyber Incident Reporting
Organisations covered by the SOCI Act must report any cyber incidents that could have a significant impact on their operations. Early reporting allows the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) to provide support, offer solutions, and help minimise damage.
Risk Management Programs
The SOCI Act requires businesses to have formal risk management programs in place. These plans must address cyber threats as well as physical and supply chain risks. By doing this, organisations are better prepared to prevent incidents before they occur.
Register of Critical Assets
Businesses must share information about their critical infrastructure assets with the government. This helps the authorities build a clear picture of where potential risks lie across the country, allowing for faster and more coordinated responses.
Enhanced Cyber Security Obligations
For certain assets deemed particularly important, businesses may be required to comply with additional obligations. This can include independent security audits, providing technical information to government agencies, or participating in cyber exercises to test defences.
Benefits for Australian Businesses
While complying with the SOCI Act is a legal requirement for many, it also offers direct benefits to organisations:
- Improved Defences – Businesses strengthen their ability to detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats.
- Reduced Financial Risk – By avoiding data breaches or operational downtime, companies can save significant costs in the long run.
- Greater Trust – Customers, partners, and regulators are more likely to trust businesses that take cyber security seriously.
- Support from Government Experts – The ACSC provides expert advice and assistance to businesses affected by cyber threats.
Who Should Pay Attention to the SOCI Act?
If your organisation operates in any of Australia’s critical sectors—or supports businesses that do—you should stay informed about your responsibilities under the SOCI Act. Even businesses not directly covered by the Act can benefit from following its principles.
Getting Started with Compliance
Not sure where to begin? Here’s a quick checklist to help your organisation start aligning with the SOCI Act:
Conduct a cyber security risk assessment
Create or update your risk management plan
Establish a procedure for reporting incidents
Seek advice from cyber security experts
Stay up to date with guidance from the ACSC
As Australia faces an evolving cyber threat landscape, the SOCI Act is a critical piece of the puzzle in protecting national infrastructure. For organisations operating in critical sectors, compliance is not just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about securing your operations, protecting your data, and helping Australia stay resilient in a digital world.
