Morrison calls for 'vigilance' after Austal cyber attack

The Prime Minister says a hacking and extortion attempt against a major shipbuilder confirms the need for cyber security vigilance.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Source: AAP

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says a cyber-attack and extortion attempt against a major Australian Defence shipbuilder highlights the need to remain vigilant to malicious activity.

National security agencies are investigating after an unknown offender hacked Austal to access drawing designs and the personal contact details of some of its staff.

The attacker tried to sell some of the material online.

Mr Morrison said there would never be a "100 per cent foolproof guarantee" such breaches would not occur.

"I think it's a reminded of why it has been so important to continue to invest so strongly in Australia's cyber security," he told reporters in Sydney on Friday.

"It's a constant reminder of the need for vigilance."

Shipbuilder Austal builds defence vessels for several countries Source: AAP

Mr Morrison said Deputy Secretary National Cyber Security Advisor Alastair MacGibbon will prepare and lead the Government's response to the problem.

Austal makes defence vessels for several markets, including the United States. The company said its US business was unaffected by the breach.