As Australia transitions to a new electrical era, the demand for enhanced security measures in electricity generation infrastructure is intensifying. This shift is driven by a surge in electricity needs as both global and local economies evolve, prompting a re-evaluation of safety standards for critical energy infrastructure.
The roots of this transformation can be traced back to the late 19th century, when Australia experienced its first electrical revolution. This era marked the transition from gas to electric lighting, spurring industrial electrification and the establishment of electric tram networks in major cities such as Melbourne and Sydney.
By the mid-20th century, the emergence of statewide electricity grids signified a substantial leap in power generation capabilities. The construction of the 50MW Yallourn Power Station in 1924 illustrated the advances in technology that allowed electricity to be transmitted over long distances, paving the way for a dominance of coal-fired power plants in the country.
However, the reign of “King Coal” is now waning. Recent years have seen a decline in coal’s share of the energy market, falling below 50% for the first time by the mid-2020s. This shift is attributed to aging infrastructure, climate change imperatives, and the remarkable rise of renewable energy sources. In the year ending June 2025, Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions fell by 2.2%, driven in part by record renewable generation.
The demand for electricity is hitting unprecedented levels, with the National Electricity Market (NEM) reaching an all-time high of around 284 terawatt hours (TWh). While electricity production has more than tripled since the mid-1970s, the global landscape is also witnessing a similar transformation. Total global electricity generation surged from roughly 6,000 TWh to over 30,000 TWh during the same period.
As energy consumption escalates, particularly driven by data centres and artificial intelligence (AI) facilities, operators are reassessing security measures to maintain operational continuity. The Australian Infrastructure Monitor indicates that data centres have become a key area of investment, ranking third alongside renewable energy. With over 300 data centres in operation and new hyperscale facilities entering the market, the pressure to enhance physical security is mounting.
Governments are responding swiftly, recognizing the need to protect critical infrastructure that underpins essential services such as health, food production, and telecommunications. Enhanced compliance measures for physical and cyber security are becoming increasingly vital as the energy landscape undergoes a fundamental shift.
Significant changes are being driven by the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 and subsequent amendments, which emphasize an “all-hazards” approach. This includes integrating physical security with cybersecurity to protect 11 key sectors, such as energy production and AI facilities. As generation and infrastructure evolve, new vulnerabilities are emerging, necessitating robust security protocols.
For industry leaders like Boon Edam Australia, the transition is clear. The company focuses on layered security solutions to address the evolving landscape of threats. New regulations compel entities to establish Critical Infrastructure Risk Management Programs (CIRMP), mandating the identification and mitigation of risks related to physical, cyber, personnel, and supply chain factors.
Moreover, the updated legislation requires responsible entities to have compliant Risk Management Programs, with the Cyber and Infrastructure Security Centre (CISC) empowered to enforce adherence. The recent amendments also clarify that data storage systems housing business-critical information are now subject to the same security obligations as primary infrastructure assets.
In addressing these challenges, Boon Edam is actively involved in providing integrated security entrance solutions, including high-security portals and speed gates designed to control access to sensitive areas. The emphasis on layered security is critical in preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the safety of infrastructure projects.
As Australia grapples with the escalating threats to its national infrastructure, the call for heightened security measures is resonating across various sectors. The need for compliance and robust protection protocols is no longer a distant concern but rather an immediate imperative. This reality underscores the urgency for stakeholders involved in infrastructure planning and management to prioritize security in their operations.
The increasing scrutiny from regulatory bodies and the government signifies a broader global trend toward safeguarding critical assets against both physical and cyber threats. As highlighted by Mike Burgess, the head of ASIO, hostile foreign governments are actively targeting Australia’s social cohesion and critical infrastructure, further emphasizing the need for immediate action in the realm of security.
Looking ahead, the integration of security measures into the fabric of Australia’s energy infrastructure will be paramount to safeguarding its future. As the country navigates this complex landscape, the collaboration of various stakeholders—from architects and engineers to regulatory bodies—will play a crucial role in ensuring the resilience and security of essential services that underpin societal stability.
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