Microsoft and the Australian Government have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) intended to strengthen national digital resilience, with a focus on secure cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and critical infrastructure protection.
The agreement was signed in Canberra by Home Affairs and Cyber Security Minister Tony Burke and Microsoft President of Global Affairs Lisa Monaco. It sets out a framework for strategic cooperation, including measures aimed at protecting critical digital assets and maintaining the security of essential services.
The MOU identifies priority areas including resilience for critical connectivity networks and data centre infrastructure; improved cybersecurity threat information-sharing and incident response; support for secure adoption of AI in government; resilience measures for critical infrastructure providers; and collaboration on policy and regulatory settings related to national digital resilience.
“We can’t stop all cyber attacks. But agreements like this make sure we’re more resilient. There’s no better example of private/public partnership than cyber,” said Minister Burke. “We rely on each other to keep Australians safe online. Microsoft is a critical partner in cyber security and this agreement takes our relationship to the next level.”
“Digital resilience is foundational to Australia’s national and economic security in the AI era. This partnership demonstrates what is possible when government and industry work together to strengthen critical systems, support trusted innovation, and ensure new technologies are deployed securely and responsibly in the national interest,” said Lisa Monaco, President of Microsoft Global Affairs. “This collaborative approach is a strong example of how governments and industry can work together to support a more digitally resilient future, delivering meaningful benefits for the economy and society.”
According to the statement, the MOU also sets an operating framework for ongoing strategic dialogue between Microsoft and the Government to monitor progress and review changes in the threat landscape.
The agreement follows Microsoft’s previously announced A$25 billion commitment to expand AI and cloud infrastructure in Australia, strengthen cybersecurity and provide AI skills training. The company said that earlier investment included plans to expand the Microsoft-ASD Cyber-Shield to additional government agencies, and that the new MOU formalises deeper cooperation on national resilience and critical infrastructure protection.
“This agreement reinforces Microsoft’s long-term commitment as a trusted partner in Australia’s security and prosperity. We believe resilience is a growth strategy, and by strengthening our partnership with Government, we are helping provide the resilient digital foundations Australia needs to and thrive,” said Jane Livesey, President of Microsoft Australia and New Zealand. “Through continued investment in local infrastructure and expertise, and close collaboration with industry and government on security, we’re supporting Australia’s ability to innovate with confidence.”
The MOU takes effect immediately and is intended to complement existing collaboration between Microsoft and the Australian Government, the statement said.
