In 2024, Secured by Galah Cyber cemented its place as a go-to podcast for software security enthusiasts, amassing over 5,200 listeners from across Australia and beyond. Hosted by Cole Cornford, the podcast brings together some of the country’s most prominent software security experts to discuss their unconventional career paths, challenges, and unique approaches to addressing the evolving needs of application security (AppSec).
Each episode dives deep into the diverse landscape of AppSec, highlighting how every organisation’s security requirements are distinct and require tailored solutions. These conversations offer practical insights that resonate with those emerging in this sector and those with plenty of notches on their belts. Whether you’re exploring the world of cybersecurity for the first time or looking to refine your skills, Secured provides a wealth of knowledge and actionable advice to help you succeed in this dynamic industry.
To celebrate an incredible year, we’ve curated the top episodes of 2024. These highlights showcase key discussions around PSPF updates, AI-driven AppSec, and fostering diverse, high-performing teams. Tune in to explore the moments that defined cybersecurity in 2024 and set the stage for a transformative 2025.
Thank You for Supporting Secured in 2024
This year, Secured continued to grow, connecting listeners with our CEO, Cole Corndord, one of Australia’s leading voices in cybersecurity. Your support has made this journey possible. With over 5,200 listeners, we’re proud to have delivered content that inspires, educates, and challenges the status quo.
The Top 5 Secured Podcasts of 2024
1. Navigating the PSPF 2024 Updates: Expert Insights with Kat McCrabb and Toby Amodio
In this episode, Cole Cornford speaks with cybersecurity experts and IRAP assessors Kat McCrabb and Toby Amodio about the critical updates to the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) for 2024. They explore the structural changes to the PSPF, such as the separation of information and technology domains, which introduces a more detailed approach to security while complicating governance and reporting requirements. Kat and Toby highlight the growing emphasis on IRAP assessments and the strain on resources due to the increased demand for assessors. They also discuss the challenges agencies face in addressing gaps in self-attestation practices, as highlighted in recent ANAO reports, and emphasise the importance of managing legacy IT systems to maintain compliance.
This insightful discussion offers practical advice for organisations navigating evolving cybersecurity challenges. Kat and Toby stress the need for proactive planning, early risk assessments, and leveraging external expertise to meet stricter compliance standards. They also highlight the importance of fostering a culture of security awareness and allocating resources effectively to overcome challenges. Whether addressing reporting issues or adapting to the new PSPF structure, this episode provides actionable strategies to help organisations stay ahead.
2. AI-Driven AppSec: Shan Kulkarni on Nullify, Hiring Challenges, and the Future of Cybersecurity in Australia
In this episode, Cole Cornford sits down with Shan Kulkarni, co-founder and CEO of Nullify, to explore the transformative role of AI in Application Security (AppSec). Nullify, an innovative product developed by Shan, uses AI agents to autonomously perform various levels of product security work, offering a scalable solution to the persistent shortage of skilled professionals in the cybersecurity industry. From his experiences in roles such as Cloud Operations Lead at UNSW Redback Racing and Cloud Security Engineer at CMD Solutions Australia, Shan provides a unique perspective on the evolving state of AppSec in Australia.
The conversation delves into the challenges of launching a startup, particularly in navigating Australia’s tech landscape and addressing hiring gaps in the cybersecurity field. Shan shares his vision for how AI can reshape the future of AppSec by improving efficiency and reducing the dependency on human expertise for repetitive security tasks. Beyond technical insights, Shan offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, discussing the importance of resilience, innovation, and staying ahead in a changing industry. This episode is a must-listen for those curious about the intersection of AI and cybersecurity and its potential to redefine industry practices.
3. Leading Change in Cybersecurity: Tara Whitehead’s Approach to Security Engagement
In this episode, Tara Whitehead, Security Engagement Manager at MYOB, shares her unique journey from a non-technical background in advertising and international relations to becoming a cybersecurity specialist. Tara reflects on how her diverse career experience has equipped her with critical soft skills, such as communication and stakeholder engagement, which she leverages to drive meaningful change in large organisations. She explains how these skills have been pivotal in embedding security into everyday operations and fostering collaboration across teams.
Tara delves into her approach to leading change management in cybersecurity, focusing on building trust, simplifying complex security concepts, and aligning security goals with broader business objectives. She highlights the importance of tailoring communication to resonate with different audiences, ensuring everyone from executives to frontline staff understands their role in maintaining organisational security. Tara also offers insights into overcoming resistance to change, creating security champions within teams, and measuring the impact of engagement efforts. Her practical advice and focus on human-centred approaches make this episode a valuable resource for anyone looking to strengthen the security culture within their organisation.
4. Building a Cybersecurity Team with a Difference with Mat Franklin
In this episode, Mat Franklin, founder and managing director of MF & Associates, joins Cole Cornford to discuss the transformative impact of diversity and inclusion in the tech and cybersecurity sectors. Since founding the consultancy in 2019, Mat has grown MF & Associates to a team of approximately 70 employees, with its largest division dedicated to cybersecurity. Remarkably, around 70% of the team are women, alongside strong representation of LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. This deliberate focus on diversity underscores Mat’s belief that inclusive workplaces foster innovation, collaboration, and better security outcomes.
Mat shares his approach to recruiting talent, emphasising the importance of valuing potential and cultural fit over traditional technical qualifications. He explains how his team draws on diverse perspectives to solve complex security challenges, often inspired by practices from other industries like health and law, which bring fresh ideas to cybersecurity. Mat also discusses how creating an inclusive culture requires leadership, transparency, and ongoing effort to break down barriers that have traditionally limited diversity in tech. This episode is packed with insights into building high-performing teams while championing representation and equity in cybersecurity.
5. Exploring the Cybersecurity Landscape with Matt Jones
In this episode, Cole Cornford is joined by Matt Jones, co-founder and chief innovation officer of Elttam, an independent security boutique specialising in security assessment services. Beyond leading Elttam, Matt actively contributes to the infosec community, assisting with initiatives like BSides Canberra’s call for papers and developing open-source tools such as talkback.sh.
Matt and Cole discuss the driving forces behind founding Elttam and the current state of Australia’s infosec industry, highlighting areas where it lags behind its global counterparts and the growth opportunities. The conversation also dives into the niche but critical field of exploit development, exploring its role in advancing security practices. Matt’s passion for fostering innovation and collaboration in cybersecurity shines through, making this episode essential for professionals looking to understand better the challenges and opportunities shaping the infosec landscape.
Our Curated Playlist – Looking Back at 2024
Looking for an easy way to dive into our best content? We’ve compiled a playlist featuring 2024’s most talked-about episodes. Whether you seek guidance on compliance, insights into AI’s role in AppSec, or tips on building resilient teams, this collection is for you. Check it out here.
Looking At What’s Ahead for 2025
Stay tuned for 2025 as we bring exciting new episodes featuring Australia’s brightest security minds. Expect deeper dives into pressing cybersecurity issues, innovative approaches to AppSec, and more career stories to inspire your journey.
Conclusion
The 2024 season of Secured by Galah Cyber showcased a remarkable lineup of experts, offering diverse insights into the most pressing topics in cybersecurity. From unpacking the PSPF updates with Kat McCrabb and Toby Amodio to exploring AI’s transformative role in AppSec with Shan Kulkarni, this year’s episodes tackled technical challenges and security’s human elements. Tara Whitehead’s emphasis on communication and change management and Mat Franklin’s focus on diversity and inclusion highlighted the importance of fostering strong, adaptable teams.
As we look ahead to 2025, the Secured podcast promises to continue delivering thought-provoking discussions and practical strategies for navigating Australia’s cybersecurity battlefield. With new voices and fresh perspectives, the upcoming season aims to keep you informed, engaged, and prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Keep Your Business Secured with Galah Cyber
Explore our curated playlist of Secured by Galah Cyber’s top 2024 episodes, crafted for your listening enjoyment this holiday season. From tackling compliance challenges to exploring AI-driven AppSec and building resilient teams, these episodes offer practical advice and fresh insights for cybersecurity professionals at every level. Check out the playlist here.
Have ideas for topics or guests? Let us know and help shape the next season of Secured!
