As digital and physical workplaces continue to converge, Australian organisations face challenges with maintaining the safety of both work environments. For example, while an abundance of cloud-based services and AI agents makes updating security systems faster and easier than ever, many physical access control solutions (PACS) may struggle to facilitate those updates, leaving security gaps that have the potential to cripple businesses.

This is because, even though PACS have long been used, the growing importance and prevalence of integrating physical access systems into broader security governance frameworks has become difficult for companies that still rely on legacy systems.

To keep pace with ongoing technological advances, Australian organisations need the following five essential factors to future-proof their physical access control systems.

If You Haven’t Already, Adopt Cloud-based and Mobile Access

According to the HID 2025 State of Security and Identity report, 37% of global security leaders have already deployed mobile credentials, with another 32% planning to deploy them in the near future. Respondents cite better security and greater convenience and operational efficiency as reasons to switch, as well as the flexibility and scalability of these solutions that can be easily managed anytime, anywhere.

The adoption of cloud-based and mobile access enables stronger security protection through multi-factor authentication (MFA). Unlike keycards, mobile credentials cannot be easily stolen or duplicated, improving security and reducing lost credential costs. MFA provides another layer of security by combining biometrics with mobile credentials or biometrics with one-time passcodes, for example. This helps to further protect companies and workers, prevents credential theft, and lets organisations tailor access to buildings and company assets based on risk levels, ensuring stricter control over sensitive areas like executive offices. For organisations that still prefer the use of keycards, it is essential to choose ones that use modern cryptography and advanced encryption for the maximum level of security.

Connect Access Control With Intelligent Systems

In the digital economy, there are new opportunities for Australian enterprises to expand the use of access data in building management. A recent report shows that  approximately 53% of respondents integrated building occupancy and use with their access control configurations to collect more insights that enabled data-driven decision making.

For 37% of respondents, Internet of Things integration enabled them to connect access control with other intelligent systems like lighting, HVAC and occupancy sensors. This is a key trend influencing buying decisions to enable more cohesive and efficient building operations.

Implement Systems That Promote Interoperability and Open Standards

PACS were once renowned for proprietary technology that limited integration. However, the open supervised device protocol (OSDP) has accelerated the use of open standards, which is improving security and compatibility.

A key issue for many Australian organisations is achieving and maintaining compatibility with legacy technologies, integration with existing security platforms and supporting technological innovation.

OSDP offers simpler installation of new technologies supported by AES-128 encryption, bidirectional communication, tamper detection and seamless device integration for Australian enterprises.

Focus On Cybersecurity

The ongoing and increased risks of cyberattack mean organisations of all sizes understand the imperative to keep pace with cybersecurity best practices. Unfortunately, some enterprise systems may still lack critical protections that keep organisations safe from external threats.

Networked access control systems enhance efficiency and integration by connecting controllers, readers and central servers. However, this interconnectedness can introduce potential security gaps. As digital and physical security continue to merge, organisations must keep a sharp focus on cybersecurity by implementing proper configurations, enforcing strict permissions and applying regular software updates to maintain robust protection.

Ensure Security Systems Are ESG Compliant

Australia has now adopted mandatory environmental, social and governance (ESG) compliance reporting for enterprises. For this reason, and to better manage the impact of rising energy costs, businesses are prioritising energy-efficient access control systems with features like low-power hardware and remote management. In the security industry, the requirement for ESG compliance has led to an increased focus on the supply chain, with professionals seeking solutions that minimise resource use, reduce consumables, and generate less waste.

The HID 2025 State of Security and Identity report has revealed that three-quarters of organisations now seriously consider sustainability when selecting security solutions, with 54% actively seeking technologies that minimise energy use and support green building efforts. Additionally, 53% said that sustainability is a top priority when considering upgrades to existing security systems.

The future of PACS is already here. The challenge and opportunity for Australian organisations is how to future-proof this technology for ongoing technological evolution.

The answer is sustainability-focused security that uses cloud-based solutions and mobile access, integrates biometrics with multi-factor authentication, has a foundation of open standards like OSDP and an engine room of AI and automation.

Australian organisations that embrace these factors into a unified system to address both their physical and cybersecurity strategy will not only be more secure workplaces now but will also be much better positioned for long-term success no matter how much technology evolves in the future.