If you think cybercriminals only go after the big fish, think again. In 2026, small businesses are one of the most targeted groups in Australia — and most of them don’t have a plan in place when something goes wrong.

The numbers don’t lie

According to the Australian Cyber Security Centre, small businesses account for over 43% of all cyber attacks in Australia. The average cost of a cyber incident for a small business? Over $46,000. For many, that’s enough to close the doors.

What a cybersecurity plan actually looks like

It doesn’t need to be a 50-page document. A solid cybersecurity plan for a small business covers a few key areas:

  • Password management — Using unique, strong passwords for every account and enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible.
  • Software updates — Keeping your operating systems, browsers, and business tools up to date. Most attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that have already been patched.
  • Backup strategy — Regular, automated backups stored both locally and in the cloud. If ransomware hits, you can restore without paying a cent.
  • Staff awareness — Your team is your first line of defence. Even basic training on spotting phishing emails can prevent most attacks.
  • Incident response — Knowing who to call and what to do if something goes wrong. Having a plan saves precious time when every minute counts.

Where to start

You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with the basics: update your passwords, turn on two-factor authentication, and make sure your backups are running. From there, you can build out a more comprehensive plan over time.

If you’re not sure where your business stands, we offer a free cybersecurity health check as part of our tech consulting service. We’ll review your current setup and give you a clear, jargon-free action plan.

The bottom line

Cybersecurity isn’t just for big corporations with dedicated IT teams. It’s for every business that uses email, stores customer data, or accepts online payments — which, in 2026, is pretty much everyone.

The good news? Protecting your business doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It just takes a bit of planning and the right support.

Get in touch to book your free cybersecurity health check.