The Australian Government welcomes the announcement by the European Union (EU) to impose sanctions against malicious cyber actors, the first set of sanctions under the EU’s cyber sanctions regime.

Australia supports measures designed to hold malicious cyber actors to account. These sanctions signal that malicious cyber activity has consequences by imposing meaningful costs for the unacceptable behaviour of state and non-state actors.

Australia is concerned by reckless and malicious cyber actions that seek to disrupt and undermine democratic institutions, critical infrastructure and international organisations. We support international efforts to prevent, discourage, deter and respond to such actions.

Australia reaffirms our shared commitment to freedom and democratic values, and a likeminded approach to cyber affairs, with the EU.