IT Masters shortlisted for the Australian Cyber Awards – Again!!

We were thrilled to attend the Australian Cyber Awards for the very first time last year—especially because IT Masters was shortlisted as a finalist for Cyber Security Training Business of the Year!

Even more so now that we have been again shortlisted in 2026!

It’s a testament to our hardworking team of mentors, administrators and course advisors that we are able to demonstrate ITM’s student centric approach to providing whole of career education – from intern to C suite.

At least year’s awards we noticed at least 8 of our students and graduates were among the nominees  and winners, and would not be surprised to find a few more there this year as well.  We think that is more than any other single institution. It’s a great reminder that the IT Masters/Charles Sturt model gives our students a great starting ramp in their careers and that our grads are highly employable!

So a huge thank you goes out to our mentors, our admin team and course advisors, (who really do look after our students)  and more than anyone, our students – the people who make us what we are, who exemplify great grit and pursue success in their careers.

Here are some of ITM’s alumni and students who shone in the 2025 awards….

Celebrating the IT Masters Cyber Security Finalists – Australian Cyber Awards

All up, eight of our current and former students were nominated across a range of categories. That’s no small feat, and we’re immensely proud to see their hard work and professional excellence recognised on a national stage.

Craig Ford, Cyber Unicorns – IT Masters Alumni

▸ CISO of the Year (nominated)
▸ Cyber Security Professional of the Year – FMCG, Retail and Hospitality (nominated)
▸ Cyber Security Professional of the Year – Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (nominated)

Joseph Ninio, Raytheon Australia – IT Masters Current Student

▸ Cyber Security Champion of the Year – Internal (nominated)
▸ Cyber Security Professional of the Year – Government and Defence (nominated)

Chris McDonald, Stealth Cyber – IT Masters Alumni

▸ Cyber Security Consultant of the Year – SME (nominated)

Phillip Magness, Johnson Winter Slattery – IT Masters Alumni

▸ Cyber Security Lawyer of the Year (nominated)

Madhuri Nandi, Nuvei – IT Masters Alumni

▸ Cyber Security Professional of the Year – Professional and Financial Services (nominated)

Talia Zidar, Leidos Australia – IT Masters Alumni

▸ Cyber Security Rising Star – Enterprise (nominated)

Philippa Cogswell, Palo Alto Networks – IT Masters Alumni

▸ Female Cyber Security Leader of the Year – Enterprise (nominated)

We offer our congratulations to every nominee—we loved seeing your names called and your achievements celebrated. For our team, this night was about more than awards. It was about witnessing the incredible impact our community is making across government, defence, enterprise, and beyond. 

Why Recognition Like This Matters

When it comes to cyber security training in Australia, real-world outcomes matter. These nominations highlight the value of combining industry-led education with practical experience—something we strive to deliver in all our online postgraduate courses and short courses.

It’s not just about learning—it’s about being prepared to lead, consult, innovate, and defend in a rapidly evolving cyber landscape.

See You at the Australian Cyber Awards on April 30!

As we promised we are back at the Australian Cyber Awards in 2026, and we can’t wait to see even more of our students and alumni up on stage. Whether you’re just starting your journey or are already advancing in the field, we’re here to support your goals every step of the way.

Kickstart Your Cyber Security Journey in 2026

Do you see yourself at the Australian Cyber Awards one day? Australia’s digital future needs defenders—and skilled cyber security professionals are in demand like never before. If you’re ready to build a secure, high-impact career, now’s the perfect time to get started.

At IT Masters, we partner with Charles Sturt University to deliver purpose-built online postgraduate courses in cyber security. These aren’t in-person programs simply adapted for the web—they’re designed from the ground up for online learners, offering streamlined content, rapid feedback, and access to seasoned experts.

🗓️ Next intakes: Term 2 starts May 25 and Session 2 begins 13 July

🎓 100% online, flexible study with Charles Sturt University & IT Masters

👨‍🏫 Learn from cyber industry leaders with hands-on experience

🔎 Get recognised industry credits for short courses and industry certifications

 Build your credentials and protect the digital world—your future starts now.

👉 Enrol now and secure your spot