Small businesses in South Australia’s Far North are taking steps to protect themselves against cyber threats, thanks to the Keeping SA Far North Businesses Safe Online workshop series. Delivered by Regional Development Australia Far North (RDAFN) with support from the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), this program is helping early-stage startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) strengthen their cybersecurity.
Running from October 2024 to June 2025, the program includes six workshops designed to equip businesses with practical tools and strategies to defend against common cyber incidents. Two sessions have already been held, with positive feedback from attendees.
The first workshop, held in Coober Pedy on November 8, welcomed 11 participants. Attendees appreciated the straightforward advice, with one saying, “It was great to be reminded of processes and tools to keep our data safe.”
The second workshop, hosted in Roxby Downs on November 14, had 10 participants. George Kountouris, Chair of the Coober Pedy Retail, Business, and Tourism Association, praised the session as an “excellent workshop delivered by a fantastic facilitator.”
Each workshop covers key topics such as recognizing cyber threats, responding effectively to attacks, and safeguarding business systems. Led by an experienced facilitator, the sessions offer clear, actionable steps tailored to the challenges faced by regional businesses.
This initiative is part of RDA Far North’s broader mission to support regional economic growth. By helping businesses safeguard their data and systems, the program contributes to thriving, connected communities and a workforce prepared for the future’s digital demands.
The Local Buying Foundation’s support for this program is guided by its commitment to empowering local businesses and creating lasting value in regional areas. For more information about upcoming workshops, visit RDA Far North’s website.
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Funding Approved for RDA Far North’s Cyber Security Workshop Program
28 June, 2024
The SA Local Buying Foundation has approved funding for Regional Development Australia Far North Inc. to deliver the Keeping SA Far North Business Safe Online program under the Micro Business and SME Capacity Building funding category. This program focuses on building cybersecurity resilience, benefitting the communities of Port Augusta, Roxby Downs, and the Outback Communities Authority.
Running from September 2024 to March 2025, the initiative aims to equip small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the tools and knowledge to protect against common cyber threats. As businesses in the Far North face real cyber risks, the program will provide practical solutions through workshops that teach simple but effective cybersecurity measures.
The program targets 60 attendees across six face-to-face workshops, with online options to increase accessibility. Topics will include identifying cyber threats, responding to attacks, and securing business systems. A facilitator with over 30 years of experience will lead the sessions, ensuring actionable advice for participants.
By strengthening cyber resilience, this initiative aligns with the social value pillars of Thriving Communities and a Future Ready Workforce, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic prosperity through improved business security in an increasingly digital landscape.