Powerlink joined the Australian Defence Force in a multi-agency exercise called Austral Shield 26 to strengthen the protection of the nation’s critical infrastructure.
Austral Shield 26 included both cyber and physical security scenarios conducted in Queensland last month at substations near Gladstone and Cairns.
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Powerlink CEO Dr Seán McGoldrick said the exercise highlighted the importance of collaboration between critical infrastructure operators and government agencies in an increasingly complex security environment.
“Queensland’s electricity transmission network is a vital link between generators and local distribution networks, so protecting its security is critical,” Dr McGoldrick said.
“Exercises like Austral Shield allow Powerlink to work closely with Defence, government agencies and industry partners to test our procedures for a range of potential cyber and physical security scenarios.
“Participation in this exercise is one part of Powerlink’s broader, multi-layered approach to security.
“By strengthening our response capability, we are helping ensure Queenslanders continue to have access to a secure and reliable power supply.”
Exercise Austral Shield 26 is an ADF-led exercise, which aims to strengthen cooperation across government, ensuring agencies can operate seamlessly in high-pressure environments.
This year’s exercise involved more than 1500 personnel from the Navy, Army, Air Force, Space Command, and Cyber Command participate alongside representatives from state and federal agencies.
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It was held in Western Australia and North Queensland from July 3-19, 2026.
