SMBiT joins DSI to help develop SMB cybersecurity standard

Dynamic Standards International (DSI) has announced that SMBiT Professionals, a leading body for small and medium business (SMBs) IT service providers, has joined its Steering Committee to contribute to the development of the SMB1001 cybersecurity standard.

The partnership aims to leverage insights and experiences from SMBiT Professionals' extensive network to aid in shaping the cybersecurity certification standard, which is crucial for the SMB sector across Australia.

DSI, previously known as Cyber Security Certification Australia, has expanded its operations internationally due to high demand for accessible cybersecurity solutions for SMBs globally. The SMB1001 standard offers a flexible certification encompassing areas like risk management, data protection, incident response, and access control.

The standard is continually reviewed and enhanced by industry leaders on the DSI Steering Committee to ensure it remains practical and relevant for the SMB community.

Wayne Small, CEO of SMBiT Professionals, has joined other representatives from various public and private sector organisations on this committee. SMBiT Professionals, a not-for-profit industry association established in 2011, supports IT service providers dedicated to SMBs by offering resources, networking, and professional development.

Wayne Small brings over 25 years of experience in the SMB IT community. He founded Correct Solutions in 1997, which grew into a multimillion-dollar company under his leadership. In 2022, Small became CEO of SMBiT Professionals, focusing particularly on cybersecurity education for managed service providers.

Regarding the new collaboration, Wayne Small stated, "We are honoured to join the Steering Committee for the SMB1001 standard with Dynamic Standards International. This is a key step toward securing the SMB sector from evolving cyber threats, and we are excited to be a part of this future-focused initiative."

He continued, "Our members understand the challenges SMBs face in implementing robust cybersecurity measures, and they bring valuable, real-world expertise that will help shape a standard that is both accessible and effective.

"SMBiT Professionals' involvement in the committee reflects its mission to support its members with cutting-edge knowledge and resources. As part of this collaborative effort, the organisation strengthens its role as a leader in the cybersecurity field, championing standards that safeguard SMBs and enable them to grow securely and confidently."

DSI Co-Founder Professor Ryan Ko also commented on the collaboration, stating, "Our expert steering committee is critical to the development of our dynamic cybersecurity certification standard and ensuring it is fit-for-purpose and relevant to the current and emerging threat landscape."

Professor Ko added, "SMBiT Professionals brings an invaluable perspective and deep knowledge of the cybersecurity threats and challenges facing SMBs in Australia. With SMBiT as part of the Steering Committee for the SMB1001 standard, DSI further strengthens our ability to set a high benchmark for cybersecurity in the SMB sector."

The DSI Steering Committee comprises representatives from various influential organisations, including the Australian Signals Directorate, the Australian Digital Health Agency, Telstra, Deloitte, CyberCX, AusCERT, the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia, the Government of South Australia, the Insurance Council of Australia, McGrathNicol, the Pacific Cyber Security Operational Network, Sekuro, Willyama Services, BDO Australia, and the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore.