Crime Stoppers Australia today announced its support for Cyber Wardens, a free, government-backed cyber security training initiative designed to protect Australian small businesses from the growing threat of cyber attacks.
Just as Crime Stoppers Australia has empowered communities to fight crime and keep Australians safe for decades, the organisation is now extending its mission to combat cyber criminals targeting the nation’s 2.5 million small businesses.
Through a national partnership with the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), Crime Stoppers Australia is championing the message that every business deserves its own Cyber Warden – a simple, empowering step that strengthens a business throughout the entire year.
Crime Stoppers Australia Chair, Ian Stewart AO APM, said that while no business expects to become the target of cybercrime, the reality is that many small operators unknowingly leave themselves exposed by assuming it won’t happen to them.
“It’s like leaving the front door unlocked overnight – something no business would ever do intentionally. Yet, without basic cyber awareness, many are doing the digital equivalent for criminals looking for an opportunity,” Mr Stewart said.
“Small businesses manage extraordinary demands every day, and they do it brilliantly. The Cyber Wardens program gives them one more strength in their crime prevention efforts – the ability to recognise when something doesn’t look right and act early. It’s not about technical expertise; it’s about practical awareness,” he said.
Australian SMEs continue to face rising pressure from sophisticated scams, email impersonation, fraudulent invoices and payment diversion attempts. The financial and operational consequences can take years to recover from – and for some businesses, recovery never comes. The Cyber Wardens program exists to address this challenge with simple, achievable training that fits into even the busiest workday.
COSBOA CEO Skye Cappuccio, said the national partnership brings together two trusted voices committed to supporting small business resilience.
“Cyber crime doesn’t discriminate,” said COSBOA CEO Skye Cappuccio. “Whether you run a café, a trades business, a medical practice, or a startup, you’re a potential target. Just as we’ve always believed that community action is key to fighting traditional crime, we know that educating and empowering small business owners is essential to combating cyber threats.”
“Cyber Wardens is designed for busy teams – no jargon, no complexity and no barriers. It’s a simple, positive step that empowers staff and protects operations. With Crime Stoppers’ support, we’re encouraging every small business to appoint their own cyber warden this year.”
With cyber attacks increasing in frequency and sophistication, Crime Stoppers Australia is urging all small business owners to act today.
“Don’t wait until you become a statistic,” said Ian Stewart “A trained Cyber Warden could save your business $46,000. Ten minutes of free training today could protect everything you’ve built.”
A national awareness campaign will run throughout May, June and July 2026, supported by an animated video, social media content and digital outreach through Crime Stoppers Australia’s digital platforms.
Enrol for free today at www.cyberwardens.com.au
