The new year is a natural time for Brisbane businesses to review what’s working and what may be putting them at risk. Cybersecurity is often overlooked until a disruption or data incident brings it into sharp focus.
This practical cybersecurity checklist is built for Brisbane SMBs looking to improve cyber readiness without unnecessary complexity. It highlights essential cybersecurity measures that are commonly missed and provides clear, actionable steps to address them properly.
Your New Year Cybersecurity Checklist for Brisbane Businesses
Use this checklist to review your current cyber readiness. Each item highlights what to check, why it matters, and what action to take if gaps exist.
Systems Are Fully Patched and Supported
Have all security updates been applied? Outdated software is one of the most exploited weaknesses in Brisbane SMB environments. Attackers actively look for known vulnerabilities in unpatched systems. Check:
- ☐ Operating systems on all devices are supported and up to date
- ☐ Applications and line-of-business software are patched regularly
- ☐ Network equipment (firewalls, switches, routers) receives firmware updates
Action if not complete: Implement a managed patching process and plan the replacement of any end-of-life systems.
Access Controls Are Locked Down
Is user access limited to what is genuinely required? Excessive permissions and weak login controls increase the impact of stolen credentials and insider risk. Check:
- ☐ Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is enabled on email, cloud platforms, and remote access
- ☐ Every user has a complex, unique login – no shared accounts
- ☐ Admin privileges are restricted and reviewed regularly
- ☐ User accounts are disabled immediately when staff leave
Action if not complete: Carry out an access review and enforce MFA across all critical systems.
Backups Are Secure and Tested
Can your business recover data quickly after an incident? Backups that are untested or accessible from the main network may fail during a ransomware attack. Check:
- ☐ Backups run automatically and frequently
- ☐ At least one backup copy is stored offsite or in the cloud
- ☐ Backups are isolated from live systems
- ☐ Data restoration is tested regularly
Action if not complete: Review your backup strategy and test recovery before an incident forces you to.
Continuous Monitoring Is in Place
Would you know if a cyber incident was happening right now? According to the Annual Cyber Threat Report 2024-2025, there have been over 84,000 cybercrime reports in the last year, roughly one report every six minutes.
Without ongoing monitoring, many threats remain undetected until serious damage has occurred. Check:
- ☐ Systems and networks are monitored 24/7
- ☐ Alerts are configured for suspicious logins and unusual activity
- ☐ Incidents are investigated and contained promptly
Action if not complete: Introduce continuous monitoring and clear incident response procedures.
Staff Are Trained and Cyber-Aware
Do your employees know how to spot and report cyber risks? Human error remains a major cause of breaches, particularly phishing and impersonation attacks. Check:
- ☐ Staff receive regular cybersecurity awareness training
- ☐ Phishing simulations are used to reinforce learning
- ☐ Employees know how and when to report suspicious activity
Action if not complete: Deliver ongoing training and foster a culture that encourages reporting.
Why This Cybersecurity Checklist Matters for Brisbane Businesses and Their Customers
Cybersecurity matters for Brisbane businesses beyond their IT. Cybersecurity directly affects customer trust, operational stability, and long-term growth. For local businesses, strong cyber readiness helps:
- Minimise unplanned downtime and service interruptions by identifying vulnerabilities early, reducing the likelihood of system outages, and ensuring faster recovery if incidents occur, helping teams stay productive and services available.
- Prevent data breaches that damage reputation and relationships by protecting sensitive business and customer information from unauthorised access, reducing the risk of financial loss and lasting reputational damage.
- Demonstrate professionalism and reliability to clients and partners by showing that cybersecurity is taken seriously and reinforcing confidence that systems, data, and services are managed responsibly and with care.
By addressing these essential cybersecurity measures early in the new year, businesses can reduce risk while building confidence internally and externally.
Moreover, with a practical, locally informed approach, Priority 1 IT helps Brisbane organisations move beyond reactive fixes and implement cybersecurity strategies that support real business outcomes.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Us
If you’re unsure how your business compares against this cybersecurity checklist, now is the right time to find out. A proactive review can uncover gaps before they turn into costly problems.
Schedule a free consultation with us to discuss your current cyber readiness and identify practical steps to strengthen your essential cybersecurity in the year ahead.
