What’s Happening?
Powerlink joined the Australian Defence Force in Exercise Austral Shield 26 to test responses to threats against critical infrastructure.
The ADF-led exercise included cyber and physical security scenarios at substations near Gladstone and Cairns. It also brought Powerlink together with Defence, government agencies and industry partners.
Why It Matters
Queensland’s electricity transmission network links generators with local distribution networks, making its protection essential to reliable power delivery.
Austral Shield allowed participating organisations to test their procedures across different cyber and physical security situations. It also strengthened coordination between infrastructure operators and government agencies during high-pressure conditions.
Local Impact
For Gladstone and Cairns, the exercise placed nearby substations within a broader national test of critical infrastructure protection.
By practising coordinated responses at these sites, Powerlink strengthened its capability across Queensland’s transmission network. That preparation supports continued access to a secure and reliable electricity supply.
By The Numbers
- More than 1,500 personnel participated alongside representatives from state and federal agencies.
- The exercise ran from 3 to 19 July 2026 across Western Australia and North Queensland.
- Personnel came from 5 different state and federal agencies the Navy, Army, Air Force, Space Command and Cyber Command.
Zoom In
Powerlink Chief Executive Dr Seán Mc Goldrick said protecting the transmission network was critical for Queensland’s electricity supply.
“Queensland’s electricity transmission network is a vital link between generators and local distribution networks, so protecting its security is critical,” Dr Mc Goldrick said.
He said the exercise allowed Powerlink to test its procedures alongside other organisations responsible for security and emergency responses.
“Exercises like Austral Shield allow Powerlink to work closely with Defence, government agencies and industry partners to test our procedures for a range of potential cyber and physical security scenarios.”
Dr Mc Goldrick said Powerlink’s involvement formed part of its wider security planning.
“Participation in this exercise is one part of Powerlink’s broader, multi-layered approach to security. By strengthening our response capability, we are helping ensure Queenslanders continue to have access to a secure and reliable power supply.”
Zoom Out
Austral Shield 26 is led by the Australian Defence Force and aims to improve cooperation across government.
This year’s exercise brought military personnel together with representatives from state and federal agencies. Together, they tested how organisations could operate effectively during high-pressure situations.
What To Look For Next?
The procedures tested during Austral Shield may help guide future coordination between Powerlink, Defence and government agencies.
Further joint exercises could provide more opportunities to test responses as the security environment becomes increasingly complex. This cooperation could help maintain a secure and reliable power supply across Queensland.
