Key Insights from the March STN Cyber Forum: Quantum Computing and the Future of Cyber Security

The Gateway Network Governance Body (GNGB) hosted its March STN Cyber Forum, bringing together industry participants to explore one of the most significant emerging technologies shaping the future of cyber security: quantum computing.

The session featured insights from Professor Stephen Bartlett, Director of the University of Sydney Nano Institute, alongside Fernando Guerra Alves and Rishi Krishanasamy from Quantum Australia, who provided an overview of the rapidly evolving quantum ecosystem and its implications for organisations across financial services and critical infrastructure.

Quantum is moving from theory to reality

While quantum computing has historically been the domain of academic research, speakers highlighted that the technology is now entering a new phase of development. Major global technology companies and governments are investing heavily in quantum capabilities, with roadmaps suggesting commercially useful quantum computers could emerge within the next decade.

Australia is playing an active role in this global race. Through its National Quantum Strategy, the country aims to become a recognised leader in quantum technologies by 2030. Initiatives led by Quantum Australia are helping connect research, industry and government to accelerate innovation and commercial applications across computing, sensing and communications.

Why quantum matters for cyber security

A key focus of the forum was the potential impact of quantum computing on modern encryption.

Much of today’s digital security relies on cryptographic systems—such as RSA and elliptic curve encryption—that depend on the difficulty of solving certain mathematical problems. Quantum computers could solve these problems far more efficiently than classical computers, potentially rendering some widely used encryption methods insecure.

To address this emerging risk, global standards bodies are developing post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms designed to remain secure in a quantum future. Transition timelines currently suggest:

• By 2026: Critical infrastructure organisations should develop transition plans
• By 2028: Begin implementing post-quantum cryptographic solutions
• By 2030: Complete migration to quantum-safe algorithms

What organisations should be doing now

Although large-scale quantum computers capable of breaking current encryption do not yet exist, the message from speakers was clear: organisations should begin preparing now.

For sectors such as superannuation and financial services—where secure data transmission and encryption are fundamental—planning for post-quantum cryptography will become increasingly important.

As Professor Bartlett noted during the forum, the immediate priority for leaders is not necessarily implementing new technologies today, but ensuring quantum readiness is on the agenda of boards and executive teams, supported by clear transition planning and engagement with emerging industry initiatives.

Continuing the conversation

The STN Cyber Forum provides a space for participants across the superannuation ecosystem to discuss emerging cyber risks and share insights on how the sector can strengthen its collective resilience.

GNGB thanks Professor Stephen Bartlett, Fernando Guerra Alves and Rishi Krishanasamy for their valuable insights and contributions to this important discussion.