Water utilities to review network security

The AU$8 million CNVA is a key part of government efforts to secure Australia's critical infrastructure against threats such as terrorist attacks.

The two organisations have partnered for an assessment of their Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. SCADA is used for remote monitoring and control in the delivery of essential services like water, electricity and gas.

Attorney-General Philip Ruddock yesterday announced the government would contribute half of the AU$120,000 assessment cost of bringing in experts to undertake the assessments.

"This funding agreement is another milestone in the cooperation between industry and government to protect Australia's critical infrastructure," Ruddock said.

"The CNVA programme will help companies secure their key computer systems by assessing and testing their ability to resist exploitation or attack.

"It is not just about finding vulnerabilities in computer networks -- it is also about reassuring companies their current security measures are working effectively".

The two organisations came together via the government's Trusted Information Sharing Network, a forum for owners of critical infrastructure to share security information.