URGENT UPDATE: Cybersecurity automation has become business-critical for 100% of Australian organizations, according to a new report released today. The 20 November 2025 survey by ThreatQuotient, a leader in threat intelligence, reveals a dramatic rise in the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) within cybersecurity teams across the nation.
As cyber threats escalate, Australian cybersecurity professionals regard automation, increasingly powered by AI, as essential for operational success. This marks a significant jump from 86% last year, highlighting a growing trend towards AI integration in cybersecurity strategies.
Conducted by Opinion Matters, the study surveyed 750 senior cybersecurity professionals from large organizations in Australia, the UK, and the USA. It shows that Australia leads the way in automation adoption, with 95% of participants facing challenges, primarily due to technology issues. However, 5% reported no significant roadblocks, signaling potential progress in overcoming these challenges.
“Australian organizations are embracing AI-powered automation at an unprecedented pace, and the data shows that this shift is no longer optional; it’s essential,” said Leon Ward, Chief Transformation Officer at Securonix. The report reveals a clear shift in focus towards quantifiable metrics, such as Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR), which 60% and 58% of Australian respondents use as key performance indicators, outpacing global averages.
Despite the enthusiasm for AI integration, many organizations report significant barriers. The report highlights 31% of Australian professionals facing failures in AI systems, and concerns about geopolitical complexities complicate supplier selection. A staggering 32% express worries about these political implications, while 29% cite ethical issues as primary concerns.
Funding for cybersecurity automation is on the rise, with 55% of Australian organizations receiving new budgets, an increase from 49% globally. However, the pressure from leadership remains a double-edged sword. While 60% report board pressure to adopt AI for efficiency, 31% struggle with management buy-in, indicating a paradox in executive support.
As organizations adapt to these rapid changes, the focus on operational effectiveness is becoming paramount. “With clear performance metrics and growing maturity, Australia is well-positioned to lead the next phase of cybersecurity transformation,” Ward added.
As the cybersecurity landscape evolves, organizations are urged to not only invest in AI but also address the pressing human factors that impact successful implementation. The momentum in Australia highlights a pivotal moment in the global cybersecurity narrative, making this a critical time for stakeholders to engage and act.
For more insights, access the full report at ThreatQuotient.
