Lieutenant General Michelle McGuinness has been appointed National Cyber Security Co-ordinator.

She replaces Air Marshall Darren Goldie, who in November was recalled to Defence to deal with a “workplace matter” related to his time in that department.

Lieutenant General McGuinness has served in the Defence Force for three decades, holding a range of roles in Australia and internationally, most recently as deputy director Commonwealth integration in the US Defence Intelligence Agency for three years.

The co-ordinator leads national cybersecurity policy, responses to major cyber incidents, preparedness efforts and strengthening of capability in collaboration with policy, operational and security agencies. 

Home Affairs and Cyber Security Minister Clare O'Neil says the new co-ordinator's task is to “drive forward the necessary work to ensure Australia is best positioned to respond to the opportunities and challenges of the digital age.

“I’m looking forward to working with Lieutenant General McGuiness to help keep Australia safe from cyber criminals and help make our country one of the most cybersecure nations in the world by 2030,” Ms O’Neil said.