Master Integrator has appointed Aegis Cybersecurity as its official cybersecurity advisory partner, with the organisations set to collaborate on cybersecurity education and awareness initiatives for systems integrators across Australia and New Zealand.

The partnership aims to address growing cybersecurity risks as connected technologies become increasingly embedded in residential, commercial and critical environments.

Systems integrators are taking on greater responsibility for network infrastructure, connected devices, remote access and integrated control systems, placing them in an increasingly important position within the cybersecurity landscape.

Through the agreement, Master Integrator and Aegis Cybersecurity will develop practical education, industry guidance and awareness initiatives to help integration businesses better understand their exposure and strengthen their security practices.

“Cybersecurity is rapidly becoming one of the most significant threats facing our industry, yet so much of the conversation continues to focus elsewhere. Integrators are connecting more devices, managing increasingly complex networks and taking responsibility for systems that can have very real security implications for their clients,” Master Integrator founder and managing director Paul Skelton says.

“We need to recognise that cybersecurity isn’t somebody else’s problem. It’s increasingly our problem, and we have a responsibility to ensure our industry has the knowledge and tools to manage those risks.”

Aegis Cybersecurity founder and chief executive Luke Irwin says integrators need to consider cybersecurity throughout the entire project lifecycle, from system design and installation to commissioning and ongoing support.

“Systems integrators play an increasingly important role in the cybersecurity landscape, often deploying and maintaining technologies that connect directly to a client’s network and sensitive information, be it in their home or their office,” he says.

“By partnering with Master Integrator, Aegis Cybersecurity will help bridge the knowledge gap and give integrators practical, actionable guidance that will support them to protect their customers, their businesses and their reputations.”

The partnership will focus on making cybersecurity information more accessible and relevant to the day-to-day challenges faced by integration businesses, helping them adopt stronger practices and improve the security of the systems they deliver.