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Future-Proofing Cyber Australia: National School Challenge Trains 900 Students

Announcement posted by Edtech Group 30 Jun 2025

ASCC Final Video 2025 v4.mp4
From Classroom to Cyber Careers: ASCC 2025 Empowers the Next Generation

The Australian Schools Cyber Challenge (ASCC) is a national program for students in Years 7-12, offering a dynamic, hands-on learning experience through progressive rounds of scenario-based challenges. Aligned to the national curriculum, the ASCC equips students with essential technical skills in areas like computer networks, data security, and ethical hacking—while also fostering teamwork, problem-solving, ethics and communication. Designed to support future study and careers in cyber security, the program gives students real-world exposure to industry tools and concepts.


In its most successful year yet, the 2025 ASCC saw over 900 students from 120 schools across Australia take part. Launched for its second year in September 2024, the program is helping bridge the national cyber skills gap—estimated at over 30,000 roles by 2030. "Programs like ASCC are not just inspiring students—they're actively building the future workforce," said Program Manager Ross Medina. "We're seeing students gain confidence, technical skills, and a clear vision of where a career in cyber can take them."


 

2025 Key Highlights

  • 84 teams from 43 schools participated, with students from Years 7 to 12.
  • 90% of learning was practical, using industry-standard virtual labs and tools like Kali Linux.
  • Female participation increased to 35%
  • National finals were streamed live
  • Targeted professional development was introduced to upskill teachers, empowering them with the confidence and capability to embed cyber security concepts directly into their classrooms.
  • High-level partnerships were formed with major sponsors like Cisco, Data#3, Griffith University, La Trobe University, QUT and Orro.

 

A Growing National Movement

Participation was strongest in Queensland (49%), followed by Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. Public school participation rose to 33%, with ASCC actively working to overcome technical and access barriers in state systems.

The ASCC continues to align with the Australian Government's Cyber Security Strategy (2023-2030), particularly Shield 5, by building sovereign capabilities through early education and hands-on industry exposure.

 

Winners and runners up in the finals June 24:

We warmly welcomed all participating teams, teachers, schools, and families to the ASCC Finals on 24 June at Brisbane Grammar School.


The event is a celebration of the incredible cyber talent emerging in our schools, and a fantastic opportunity to connect with peers, educators, and industry leaders who are passionate about cyber security.


For those who were unable to attend in person, the finals were live streamed so everyone could be part of the action.

The results were:

  1. Mentone Grammar School
  2. Marist College (Ashgrove) #3bhpp
  3. Queensland Academy for Health Sciences
  4. Merrimac State High School #1
  • 75% participants were in grade 12
  • 25 % were in grade 11
  • 35% of participants were female (5)
  • 65% of participants were male (9)

Finals Event Challenge Video https://youtu.be/UTwcKpUe5pc?si=gPfGTqWTCyAZIObx 


Looking Ahead to 2026

The ASCC plans to increase gamification, support junior students with pre-challenge content, and expand inclusion initiatives for underrepresented groups.
 

"This is about building a future-ready, diverse cyber workforce," said Medina. "The energy, interest and talent we're seeing from young Australians is remarkable—and we're just getting started.
 

To learn more or express interest in the 2026 program, visit:

🌐 www.cyberpathways.com.au/ascc 

 

Media contacts

Edtech Group
Ross Medina
Program Manager
ross.medina@edtechgroup.com.au | 0415 777 230
https://cyberpathways.com.au/ascc/ 


 

Media Contacts

Ross Medina

Customer Success Manager

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