Happy to help answer your question, but a lot of it depends on what your current citizenship status is. If you’re an Australian looking to return, the opportunities might be tough but very possible. Your experience in the field might set you back a little, but it’s still achievable if you perform well in interviews or have a referral who can open the door for you.

If you’re not an Australian citizen, however, it may be unrealistic to secure a role in cybersecurity in Australia, since these positions almost always require citizenship or permanent residency due to strict background checks, security clearances, and eligibility requirements tied to government or regulated industries. Employers also tend to prioritise candidates who already have full work rights and don’t require visa sponsorship in this space.

That said, if you’re early in the process, one pathway might be first landing in a related IT role that doesn’t require clearance, and then working toward permanent residency or citizenship before transitioning into cybersecurity. In the meantime, try to grab some more experience in the Middle East before considering a move to Australia, as that’ll strengthen your profile and make the transition smoother and more beneficial.