Canberra Bootcamp Steers Talented Teens Toward Ethical Hacking and Away from Cybercrime

Thirty-five students aged 12 to 18 took part in re_B00TCMP, a cyber security bootcamp hosted by the Australian Federal Police-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre (JPC3). The program ran at the University of New South Wales' Canberra City campus on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. Organisers said it aims to help young people understand the line between ethical hacking and criminal activity, while introducing them to careers in the cyber security industry. The Australian Signals Directorate, SANS Institute and UNSW supported the session.

Students were selected by the JPC3 for their "standout IT skills and tech curiosity". They competed in a "Capture the Flag" event, solving puzzles modelled on real-world incidents. Challenges included cracking codes, finding hidden messages and identifying vulnerabilities, which are common training activities that simulate attacker techniques in a controlled setting. Participants also received mentoring and firsthand insights into cyber roles.

A parallel program for parents, carers and teachers encouraged them to stay engaged with young people's online activities and to promote lawful use of technical skills. The AFP said these sessions also covered cybercrime, the dark web, social media and gaming platform threats, online hacking forums and child exploitation. AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner Matthew Gale said: "You would never teach a young person to drive without first teaching them the road rules." He described the program as unique in Australia as an educational intervention.