New report: vulnerable communities at risk of cybersecurity threats

Not-for-profit organisations in the social services sector are bolstering their online security to keep the personal data of thousands of vulnerable people safe, in the wake of increasing cyber-attacks.

However peak body, the New South Wales Council of Social Service (NCOSS), has warned that without support from the NSW and Federal Governments, many community sector organisations are at risk of experiencing a data breach as they do not have the resources or support to adequately safeguard against cyber threats.

A new report, released by the New South Wales Council of Social Service (NCOSS) and WorkVentures, has highlighted the risk exposure of the not-for-profit community services sector in trying to maintain the levels of security required to limit the impact and likelihood of cyber threats materialising.

The report calls for greater investment by government in cybersecurity support for community service organisations, to protect the vulnerable people they support, including women and children fleeing family and domestic violence, to ensure their safety as they rebuild their lives.

Quotes attributable to Delia Donovan, CEO, DVNSW:

“Beyond resourcing needs, this report highlights opportunities for the NSW Government to share its expertise and leverage existing infrastructure, to strengthen cyber security across data systems. Ultimately, we all want the same outcome – to guarantee our systems are protecting those who need it most.” 

Quotes attributable to Cara Varian, CEO, NCOSS:

“Smaller organisations, like women’s refuges and local neighbourhood centres, aren't sufficiently funded to maintain the high level of security required to keep personal data safe. We’d need to see increased funding from the NSW Government for our sector to be able to improve their cyber security, and greater collaboration such as shared cybersecurity training.” 

Quotes attributable to Caroline McDaid CEO, WorkVentures:

 “The criticality of addressing cyber threats facing the for-purpose sector cannot be understated. Not-for-profits operate with tight budgets requiring them to prioritise frontline services. Having extensively supported the sector to address cyber threats, Work Ventures understands it needs targeted, funded guidance to protect extremely sensitive data and enable the continuation of essential services."

Quotes attributable to, Gabe Wallis, Cyber Security Lead Consultant, WorkVentures:

“Cybersecurity is much more than an IT issue - it’s a shared responsibility. Everyone, from government through to frontline workers have a part to play in protecting the data of our most vulnerable communities. Building resilience against current and emerging threats needs to be built collectively and not in siloes.”

Media contact: Maria Kelly, 0432 049 034, maria.kelly@essentialmedia.com.au

About NCOSS:

The NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) is the peak body for the social services sector in NSW. With over 250 members and a wider network of organisations and individuals who share our values, we advocate to alleviate poverty and disadvantage in NSW.

About WorkVentures:

At WorkVentures, we’re committed to helping organisations — especially not-for-profits — navigate the digital world with confidence and resilience. Our Cyber Security Services are designed to significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats for community-focused organisations by delivering tailored, practical solutions. We begin with in-depth cyber risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities, then build strategic, cost-conscious security frameworks that align with each organisation’s risk profile and operational reality. With a strong focus on responsible innovation and data protection, WorkVentures is proud to support a future where privacy is respected, and digital inclusion is secure.