The federal government is turning to university students to help beef up Australia's cyber security capabilities.
With nearly one in five cyber security jobs predicted to go unfilled by 2020, $1.9 million has been promised to universities that deliver specialised training.
"Cyber security skills are fundamental to the success and growth of Australia's digital economy but like many other nations, Australia is suffering from a skills shortage in this field," Dan Tehan, minister assisting the prime minister on cyber security, said in a statement on Wednesday.
Under the program, universities can apply to be recognised as Academic Centres of Cyber Security.
The government hopes this will help attract more Australians to cyber security jobs and increase the number of skilled graduates needed to help protect businesses and government from emerging threats.
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"The new centres will help build Australia's capability by leading the way as cyber security training facilities," Mr Tehan said.
