Job description

Expression of Interest: Advisory Board Membership
Cyber Civilian Reserve

About the Initiative:

The Cyber Civilian Reserve is a proposed national capability aimed at strengthening Australia’s cyber resilience by developing a cleared, trained, and deployable civilian cyber force. This initiative is designed to complement the ADF Cyber Reserve Force and align with the Australian Cyber Security Strategy (2023–2030). The Cyber Civilian Reserve will engage cyber professionals from industry, academia and the public sector in structured training, joint exercises, and incident response support.

Role of the Advisory Board:

The Founding Advisory Board will help guide the early development of the Cyber Civilian Reserve and support its establishment. Responsibilities include:

Strategic Direction: Provide high-level guidance on the purpose, priorities, and long-term vision of the Cyber Civilian Reserve, ensuring it complements existing national initiatives, including the ADF Cyber Reserve and the Cyber Security Strategy 2023–2030.
Governance & Policy Input: Contribute to the development of legal, governance, and operational structures for the establishment of the Cyber Civilian Reserve.
Stakeholder Engagement: Help drive cross-sector collaboration by facilitating connections across government, defence, industry, and academia.
Program and Capability Development: Advise on training, membership models, and participation in national/international cyber exercises.
Visibility and Advocacy: Act as champions for the initiative through thought leadership, media engagement, and public endorsement, where appropriate.

A draft Terms of Reference (ToR) will be tabled and discussed at the first meeting of the Advisory Board to ensure clarity on roles, expectations, and procedures.

Board members will act in an individual capacity and are expected to contribute their time pro bono.

The first Advisory Board meeting is scheduled to take place at the end of 2025, followed by monthly virtual meetings (approximately 2 hours each). In addition to scheduled meetings, members may be asked to provide input via email or take part in other time-sensitive activities outside these sessions, particularly during the establishment phase.

Who We Are Seeking:

We welcome expressions of interest from individuals across Australia who are passionate about strengthening national cyber resilience and building sovereign capabilities through cross-sector collaboration. Ideal Advisory Board members will bring experience in one or more of the following areas:

Cyber Security (technical or policy) — from government, private sector, or academia
Defence, Intelligence, or Law Enforcement — including veterans and reservists
Critical Infrastructure — leadership or operational experience in sectors covered by the SOCI Act
Public Sector / APS / Regulatory roles — particularly in security, digital, or risk functions
Technology, Data, and Digital Transformation — in large organisations or startups
Legal, Governance, and Risk Management — including board or committee participation
Education and Workforce Development — particularly related to digital skills and training

We strongly encourage EOIs from:

Cyber security leaders and professionals from government, military, industry and academia
Those with experience in standing up national initiatives or not-for-profit entities
Current and former ADF and public sector employees
Individuals with cross-disciplinary knowledge spanning technology, policy, and strategy
Professionals from underrepresented backgrounds in cyber and national security

Desired Attributes:

Strategic mindset with an interest in national security and digital resilience
Willingness to act in a personal, pro bono capacity during the initial phase
Ability to commit time for monthly or quarterly meetings and ad hoc consultation
Commitment to upholding the values of public good, transparency, and diversity

Key Dates:

EOI Closes: 12 November 2025
First Meeting: end of 2025 (virtual)

How to express your interest:

Please apply here or send an email with a short cover letter outlining your background and motivation (max 300 words) along with a CV or LinkedIn profile link to: cyberreserve@verticalscope.com.au
Subject line: Advisory Board EOI
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.

Confidentiality & Independence:

All expressions of interest will be treated confidentially. Advisory Board members will act independently and without formal affiliation or representation of their employer.