Future‑Ready Mid West: Business event tackles cybercrime
New CyberWest Hub event boosts regional business capability this month
With cybercriminals increasingly targeting small and medium enterprises, regional operators face greater challenges preparing and safely adopting artificial intelligence tools to boost their business, so CyberWest Hub is delivering to the region.
CyberWest Hub Director Cecily Rawlinson said smaller operators often face cost, time and capability constraints when managing cyber risks, and many lack the confidence or experience needed to protect their business from incidents that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
“Regional businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, and the rise of AI is accelerating both opportunity and risk,” Ms Rawlinson said.
“CyberWest Hub is in a unique position to collaborate with business and community partners to bring practical, accessible cyber and AI knowledge to local operators. This important event is designed to help Mid West businesses build the confidence, capability and connections needed to adopt AI safely.”
The free event, held in partnership with Pollinators and cyber security experts, Best IT and Business Solutions, Future Ready – the secure path to AI, will be held in Geraldton on Tuesday 24 February 2026.
Participants will gain practical insights into safe and effective AI adoption—capability that is increasingly essential as digital technologies transform how businesses operate across all sectors.
The session will provide guidance on the essential cyber security foundations required for secure AI integration, including how to:
empower staff to use AI tools safely and responsibly
strengthen organisational cyber resilience
safeguard sensitive data with practical controls
prepare for emerging risks while enabling innovation
Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session and connect with fellow business leaders, innovators and regional stakeholders.
Ms Rawlinson encouraged small and medium business owners, entrepreneurs, managers, team members and other interested professionals to attend.
Event Details
Future Ready – the secure path to AI Location: Pollinators, City Hive, 184 Marine Terrace, Geraldton
Date: Tuesday 24 February 2026
Time: 4:30pm–6:30pm
Cost: Free
Refreshments provided
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1982475496577?aff=oddtdtcreator
“The Mid West is a regional powerhouse, delivering an annual economic output of $18 billion and supporting around 27,000 jobs,” Ms Rawlinson said.
“Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the region’s digital capability and ensuring local organisations can confidently leverage emerging technologies.”
For more information and events, visit cyberwesthub.au.
Further reading: New publication to help small businesses manage cyber security risks from AI | Cyber.gov.au
