SYDNEY – March 6, 2026 – Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, ESET announced the opening of registrations for the ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in Australia, inviting eligible female students pursuing IT or cybersecurity degrees to apply and join a global network of women shaping the future of the field. 2026 marks the fifth year that ESET is running the Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in Australia, building on the program’s continued efforts to support and develop the next generation of cybersecurity talent.
Despite growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, the latest ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2025 highlighted a widening skills gap, with 59% of organisations reporting critical or significant cybersecurity skills shortages, particularly as emerging technologies such as AI reshape the threat landscape. At the same time, women remain underrepresented in the field, with ISC2 estimating that they make up 22% of the global cybersecurity workforce. Expanding access and opportunities for women will therefore play an important role in strengthening the cybersecurity talent pipeline and preparing the workforce for an AI driven digital future, particularly as Australia continues to invest in strengthening its national cyber capabilities under the 2023–2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy.
The scholarship is designed to empower women in technology, offering financial support, visibility, and access to a global Alumni Club focused on mentorship, collaboration, and career growth, reflecting ESET’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in cybersecurity.
In Australia, ESET will award 1 scholarship totaling AUD 5,000. Eligible applicants include women enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate IT/cybersecurity programs at accredited institutions in Australia. Full criteria available on the website here.
“As AI and digital technologies become more embedded across society, strong cyber defences depend on the people behind them,” said Parvinder Walia, President of the APAC region at ESET. “Encouraging more women to pursue cybersecurity careers will help strengthen Australia’s talent pipeline and drive innovation across the industry.”
How to Apply
- Apply: https://www.eset.com/au/women-in-cybersecurity-scholarship/
- Opens: March 6, 2026
- Closes: 19 April 2026
About the ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship
The ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship supports female students pursuing IT and cybersecurity degrees, with programs running in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, Singapore, India, and launching in Romania in 2026. Beyond financial support, recipients join ESET’s Alumni Club – a community for ongoing networking, mentorship, and opportunities to share their journeys.
About ESET
ESET® provides cutting-edge cybersecurity to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of emerging global cyberthreats, both known and unknown—securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, our AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. The ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow our social media, podcasts, and blogs.
