NSCCC to discuss Cloud security

The National Standing Committee on Cloud Computing (NSCCC) has added security vendor Sophos to its stable of ICT companies as it seeks to expand its pool of expertise on the Cloud.

The signing of Sophos will expand a stable which currently includes Optus, Hitachi, Citrix, CSC, SAP, HP, Microsoft and Macquarie Telecom. Woolworths and Servcorp currently provide a voice for Cloud end users on the committee.

According to a spokesperson for the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, the committee is designed to complement the work of the Australian Government Information Management Office (AGIMO).

Non-vendor members include representatives government representatives from AGIMO, the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department and the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN), the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education, and the Queensland Government’s Chief Information Officer.

“Security is an important consideration for Cloud computing consumers,” the spokesperson said of the appointment of Sophos to the committee. "As a global IT security provider with a strong Australian presence and expertise with Cloud computing, Sophos provides valuable insight to the work of the Committee.

“All participating vendors on the Committee, including Sophos, will consider the issues around security and Cloud computing.

“The Committee welcomes input and support from vendors to better assess Australia’s role and opportunities in relation to Cloud computing."

In February 2012, AGIMO issued a series of 'better practices' guides for government departments and other federal bodies to help them navigate the legal, privacy and financial issues of Cloud computing.

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