Quantum computing isn’t science fiction anymore. It’s real, it’s moving fast, and it’s going to change how we handle data, security, and systems. With huge computing power, quantum machines will be able to crack encryption that protects almost everything we do online—from banking to healthcare to government.
And it is not a distant problem. It’s something we need to deal with now. For cybersecurity professionals, the priority is clear: preparing systems and teams for quantum-safe security. But across the private sector, awareness and action remain worryingly low.
At Cybernetic Global Intelligence, we help Australian businesses prepare for current and emerging cyber threats. Quantum readiness is now part of that picture. And the clock is ticking.
Quantum Computing Will Break Today’s Encryption
Most online systems today rely on encryption like RSA and ECC to keep data safe. These methods work well—until a quantum computer shows up. Quantum algorithms, like Shor’s Algorithm, can crack these traditional encryption models fast. This means customer data, intellectual property, and sensitive business transactions can all be exposed.
This might be theoretical. Quantum machines are advancing, and governments around the world are treating the issue seriously. In the US, the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act is pushing agencies to shift early. In the UK, national guidelines for quantum risk are already in play. Australia’s ASD requires quantum readiness across government and critical infrastructure by 2030.
But while public institutions are moving, the private sector is lagging. This gap in urgency will become a weak point across entire supply chains.
Survey Shows Low Awareness, Lower Action
In a recent ISACA survey, 95% of organisations admitted they don’t have a quantum computing strategy. Nearly half of them—41%—have no plans to build one anytime soon. This is a big problem as it shows many businesses still see quantum threats as something to deal with later.
Even among those who are aware of quantum risks, few understand what comes next. Only 7% of respondents said they were familiar with the new standards being developed by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). And 44% hadn’t heard of them at all.
This level of unpreparedness will cost businesses dearly in the next five to ten years.
Post-Quantum Cryptography: A Needed Shift
So, what’s the solution?
The good news is that new encryption methods—called Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)—are being designed to resist quantum attacks. These are not future concepts; they are being tested, refined, and rolled out as we speak. NIST is leading the charge, working with global experts to finalise standards that companies can adopt now.
PQC isn’t a plug-and-play fix. It requires planning, testing, and staged rollout. If done right, it offers a realistic and effective way to build quantum resilience into existing environments.
Here’s how organisations can start preparing today:
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Audit Your Encryption Use
The first step is simple: find out where and how you use encryption in your business. From customer databases to billing systems and data backups—identify what’s protected by RSA, ECC, or other vulnerable algorithms.
This audit forms the foundation. Without it, there’s no way to know your exposure.
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Perform a Risk Assessment
Once you’ve identified what’s at stake, it’s time to understand how quantum threats could impact your setup. This is where cybersecurity testing comes in.
Use ethical hacking, simulated attacks, and vulnerability assessments to see how your systems would hold up against quantum-capable adversaries. Focus especially on critical assets—customer data, financial transactions, and intellectual property.
This is not just about preparing for “some day.” It’s about testing assumptions now, using tools already at your disposal.
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Start Small with PQC Pilots
Don’t wait for a complete system overhaul. Start with pilot programs. Introduce PQC algorithms into isolated environments and run performance and compatibility checks.
This method keeps disruption low and provides valuable learning. You can tweak and adapt as you go. For businesses already running regular cybersecurity testing or ethical hacking programs, these pilots can be built into existing workflows.
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Budget for the Long Haul
Switching to quantum-safe systems won’t be free. There will be costs: new software, upgraded hardware, training, consulting, and ongoing security audits. The sooner you budget for it, the smoother your transition will be.
This isn’t just a one-off project—it’s a long-term shift in how your business manages risk. Don’t assume it can be bolted onto your existing setup later.
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Train Your Teams
A big part of this process is people. Your IT and security teams need to understand the shift to PQC. This means training, resources, and time to explore the changes coming to their daily work.
We recommend a staged learning plan tied closely to your implementation schedule. Make sure teams are comfortable testing, deploying, and supporting quantum-safe systems.
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Collaborate Across the Industry
Quantum risk isn’t isolated to any one sector or business. What affects one organisation can impact many—especially across shared platforms, vendors, or digital ecosystems.
This is why collaboration is key. Engage with cybersecurity firms, industry groups, and public institutions. Stay up to date on NIST standards. Share what you learn. When it comes to quantum threats, collective awareness and readiness can stop single points of failure from spiralling out.
Don’t Let Quantum Catch You Off Guard
2025 has been recognised as the international year of quantum science and technology. This year marks a tipping point where early preparation will start to separate resilient organisations from those playing catch-up.
The biggest myth? That this is still a distant problem. It’s not. Early quantum computers are already in development. Algorithms are already being tested. And encryption that’s vulnerable today may already be harvested and stored for future decryption—a method known as “harvest now, decrypt later.”
If you work in IT, security, compliance, or leadership, this is your early warning. You’ve got time, tools, and options. But you’ll need to act.
At Cybernetic GI, we work with Australian organisations to help them make sense of emerging threats. We offer tailored cybersecurity testing, ethical hacking services, and long-term planning support. Whether you’re early in your journey or already piloting PQC, we can help you stay ahead.
The countdown isn’t meant to scare—it’s meant to guide. And there’s still time to steer the ship. Get in touch with us at 1300 292 376 or visit our website at https://www.cyberneticgi.com/ for more information.