Introduction to Cyber Security for Social Workers

Capability level: Emerging, Evolving

Event description:

This 90-minute session provides social workers with foundational knowledge of cyber security and its critical role in protecting client data. The module begins with an overview of why cyber security matters in social work, highlighting common threats such as phishing, ransomware, and data breaches. It then explores legal and ethical responsibilities under the Australian Privacy Act and relevant international standards, emphasising the consequences of non-compliance. Participants will learn how to identify risks and apply basic prevention measures, including strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and secure device practices. Interactive activities such as polls, discussions, and quizzes reinforce learning and encourage practical application. The session concludes with an introduction to Harvey Norman Technology for Business solutions that support secure operations, followed by a Q&A.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the importance of cyber security in social work.
• Understand the role the Essential Eight plays in cyber security.
• Recognise common threats and their impact.
• Comply with legal and ethical obligations.
• Apply basic security measures in daily practice.

Who should attend?

This webinar is catered to any Social Worker or health care professional wanting to develop a greater understanding of cyber security and its critical role in protecting client data.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Explain the importance of cyber security in social work practice, including the risks and impacts of cyber attacks on client confidentiality, service delivery, and organisational reputation.
• Identify common cyber threats (such as phishing, ransomware, insider threats, and data breaches) and recognise why social workers and health professionals are targeted.
• Describe key legal and ethical obligations for protecting client data, referencing relevant legislation (e.g., Australian Privacy Act, Notifiable Data Breaches Scheme, OAIC Health Obligations).
• Recognise practical steps for risk reduction, including the Essential Eight security controls, strong password practices, multi-factor authentication, and secure device management.
• Reflect on the consequences of a data breach for clients and businesses, and outline immediate actions to take in the event of a suspected incident.
• Identify available tools and support services (such as those provided by Harvey Norman Technology for Business) that can assist in maintaining compliance and improving cyber resilience.

Event structure:

Introduction (10 minutes)

Learning Session 1: Why Cyber Security Matters (15 minutes)

Learning Session 2: Obligations of a social worker including the outline of relevant legislation and codes, OAIC’s eight steps for health privacy and non-compliance (20 minutes)

Learning Session 3: Risk and Prevention Basics including talking points about the Essential Eight, importance of MFA, device management (20 minutes)

Learning Session 4: Introduce Harvey Norman Technology for Business, our services, how a TSSP can support, highlight the benefits (15 minutes)

Conclusion + Q&A (10 minutes)

Can't attend live? Your registration includes a copy of the presentation slides and 2 weeks' free access to the event recording.

AASW Credentials: N/A