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Want to outsmart a hacker? We can teach you!
Imagine walking into class and being told your mission is to defend a corporate network from a cyber-attack, while your classmates try to break through your defences.
The room is buzzing with energy, keyboards clatter and every decision you make could mean success or total system compromise. This is just another day studying Cyber Security at TAFE Queensland’s Coomera Creative campus.
From your very first week, you’ll dive straight into the world of cyber defence. Forget waiting years to touch real technology, here you’re hands-on with enterprise-grade tools, running attack-and-defence simulations and securing networks in environments that look and feel just like the real world.
“Every lab feels like stepping into a live IT environment,” said Cyber Security teacher Marcus Herstik.
“The energy in the room is alive with intensity, collaboration, and discovery.”
What surprises most students is how cyber threats really work.
“Not all hackers are the stereotypical ‘super-techies’ you see in movies,” said Marcus.
“The reality is most attacks start with something simple, like a weak password or a phishing email. That’s why learning to recognise and stop everyday attacks is so critical.”
And the best part? Cyber Security is one of the fastest-growing careers in Australia. With AI-driven attacks, cloud vulnerabilities, and national infrastructure under constant threat, skilled defenders are in demand everywhere.
“Cyber security isn’t just an IT job anymore. It’s national security, business survival, and personal protection all rolled into one,” said Marcus.
At TAFE Queensland, you’ll build the skills employers want and need. Industry projects, partnerships, and competitions connect you directly with potential employers, and your portfolio of lab work proves you can perform under pressure.
Graduates walk into roles like cyber analyst, SOC analyst, or penetration tester, often landing jobs quickly thanks to their hands-on experience.
Marcus said his favourite part is watching students grow in confidence.
“I love that ‘lightbulb moment’ when a student realises they’ve just hacked a system or defended against an attack. That’s when they know they’re ready for the industry,” he said.
If you’re curious, competitive, and ready to future-proof your career, TAFE Queensland’s Cyber Security program at Coomera Creative campus is where it all begins