Cyber security support for resilient farming systems

Digital systems are increasingly integral to modern farming operations, supporting activities such as irrigation management, livestock monitoring and business administration. As reliance on these systems grows, cyberattacks pose a practical operational risk that can disrupt on-farm activities and food production.

Charles Sturt University worked with the Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre to develop an online resource that helps farmers recognise common cyberthreats and understand how attacks such as ransomware can affect farm operations. Drawing on applied research, Charles Sturt translated complex digital security concepts into practical, accessible guidance designed for everyday farm use.

The resulting tool, the Farmer’s Guide to Cyber Security, helps farmers better understand their exposure to cyber risk and identify actions that can help maintain business continuity. By providing research informed cyber security guidance tailored to agricultural contexts, this initiative supports more resilient farming operations and contributes to the ongoing reliability of systems that underpin food production.