Cybersecurity Risks Surge for Australian Independent Schools

• •One in four Australian independent schools reported a cyber incident in 2026.
• •The average director assurance on cyber risk is 61.9%, while capability is only 37.1%.
• •Privacy breaches involving children's data are leading to increased professional indemnity claims.

Aon's 2026 Independent Schools Risk Report reveals that cyber risk has become the top concern for Australia's independent schools, with one in four reporting a cyber incident this year, up from one in five in 2024. The report, based on a survey of 306 schools conducted between January and March 2026, indicates a significant preparedness gap, with average director assurance on cyber risk at 61.9% and capability at only 37.1%. The report highlights that privacy breaches are increasingly leading to professional indemnity claims, particularly when children's data is involved. The overall number of breach notifications in Australia reached 1,113 in 2024, with malicious attacks being the largest source. Schools are urged to improve their governance and risk management strategies as they face interconnected challenges, including workforce dynamics and financial sustainability.