Adapting to EU regulatory changes: navigating compliance and building resilience

I had the privilege of joining a panel discussion on the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape and its impact on businesses worldwide. With cyber threats, operational disruptions, and AI risks on the rise, governments are strengthening regulations to drive security, resilience and accountability across industries.

In Europe, major frameworks like DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act), NIS2 (Network and Information Security Directive) and the EU AI Act are reshaping how organisations approach cybersecurity, operational resilience, and responsible AI governance. But this shift isn’t limited to the EU – regulatory scrutiny is increasing globally, from the U.S. to APAC, with frameworks reinforcing risk management, third-party oversight and AI transparency.

A huge thank you to my fellow panelists and engaged audience members for an insightful discussion.

Navigating the endless sea of threats

Cyber security is a relentless race to keep pace with evolving threats, where staying ahead isn’t always possible. Advancing cyber maturity demands more than just reactive measures—it requires proactive strategies, cultural alignment, and a deep understanding of emerging risks.

I had an opportunity to share my thoughts on staying informed about threats, defining cyber maturity, and aligning security metrics with business goals with Corinium’s Maddie Abe ahead of my appearance as a speaker at the upcoming CISO Sydney next month.

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Volunteering as a telephone crisis supporter

The festive period can bring joy, but it can also be a time of loneliness and stress, which is why it’s so important to check in with ourselves and others.

One way I’ve had the chance to contribute is through volunteering as a telephone crisis supporter with Lifeline Australia. I’ve been answering calls from people who may be facing one of the toughest moments of their lives. Every conversation reinforces the power of simply being there for someone when they need it most.

One of the most moving parts of this role is hearing the shift in a caller’s voice – from distress to a sense of calm – because they feel heard, supported and not alone. It’s a small moment that can make a big difference.

As we head into the holidays, remember that you’re not alone either. If you’re struggling, reach out – whether to a friend, family member or a service like Lifeline. And if you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, I can’t recommend volunteering with Lifeline enough. It’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Take care of yourself and those around you this holiday season. Let’s make kindness, connection and understanding the greatest gifts we give.

Board directorship: mindset shift

I had a great week at the AICD’s Company Directors Course learning about governance, risk, strategy, legal environment, financial literacy, performance and achieving board effectiveness.

I particularly liked the interactive discussions and case studies to practice ethical decision making, applying concepts in practice and adopting the director mindset.

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RSA CISO Bootcamp

I had the privilege to join a brilliant cohort of CISOs at the RSA Conference CISO Bootcamp. It was an energising experience, where seasoned experts and emerging leaders in cybersecurity came together to tackle our industry’s most pressing challenges.

The bootcamp was more than just a learning experience; it was a platform for sharing personal insights, gaining fresh perspectives and engaging in a thought-provoking debate.

From discussing emerging threats to exchanging strategies for resilience, it was a reminder of the power of community in cybersecurity. A huge thanks to all organisers and speakers for creating a space where we can grow together and tackle our industry’s biggest challenges.

Volunteering with ISACA

It’s been fantastic to have an opportunity to give back to the community and volunteer with ISACA this year.

The Sydney Chapter hosted a number of professional development events for cyber, risk, governance and IT professionals with a common objective of building digital trust and securing our interconnected world. I had a chance to support these initiatives, ranging from fundraising for a mental health charity to helping organise conferences.

I found this experience incredibly rewarding and made some good friends along the way.

 Reflecting on a transformative week in Dubbo

I just spent an incredible week immersed in Aboriginal culture, where I had the privilege of working shoulder to shoulder with First Nations organisations as part of my AGSM Executive MBA journey.

This experiential learning project allowed me to take the academic knowledge from all my previous MBA courses and apply it in real-world contexts. What a great way to wrap up the program!

It was also an opportunity to deliver the final client presentation to Indigiearth, a 100% Aboriginal-owned native foods business, concluding the capstone strategic consulting engagement we’ve been working on this term.

Learning directly from Elders and community members enriched my understanding of Aboriginal traditions, values and the profound connection to land that underpins Indigenous enterprises. I’m proud to have been a part of this journey, bringing together cultural respect and strategic vision.

Accelerating innovation in Health as a HealthTech mentor

A big moment at the 10x Demo Day with Edmond Sorich and Eléonore Cluzel.

Health 10x, in collaboration with The George Institute for Global Health, is a unique national program accelerating the business growth of startups building affordable and scalable solutions for major health challenges.

It was a privilege to support GLIA Diagnostics developing the first portable, accurate brain injury diagnostic device over the past twelve weeks as an advisor and mentor.

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