Australia’s first cyber security centre opened in Brisbane last week, marking the first stage of a $47 million government program to strengthen the nation’s defences.

The Attorney-General’s Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT Australia) will lead a group of experts from industry, government and law enforcement to share information and develop new approaches to cyber security.

Similar hubs are planned for Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.

The Brisbane team will conduct a range of joint activities, including data analytics, targeted training, workshops and threat mapping. An information-sharing portal for the centres is also in the pipeline.

Cyber crime costs the Australian economy more than $1 billion each year.

Attorney-General George Brandis and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Cyber Security Dan Tehan say national cyber security “is not something the Commonwealth can do alone”.

“This collaborative approach will provide up-to-date information about the nature of cyber threats, help partners better understand cyber risks, and allow them to collaborate on shared challenges,” they say in a joint statement.

The cyber security centre program was designed in partnership with industry as part of Australia’s cyber security strategy.