Critical Infrastructure Program for Modelling and Analysis

The Critical Infrastructure Program for Modelling and Analysis (CIPMA) is a unique capability of the Australian Government focussed on strengthening critical infrastructure resilience and improving national security.

CIPMA develops and uses the tools of modelling and simulation with real-world data to provide impartial, evidence-based and objective analysis of potential natural or human induced disruptions to critical infrastructure. Owners and operators of critical infrastructure who partner with CIPMA can use this information to better prepare for, prevent, respond to, or recover from disruptions.

Our aimThe main objectives of the program are to enhance the understanding of:

key interdependencies between critical infrastructure sectors vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure systems and networks, and the physical, social and economic impacts of infrastructure failures.

Note: Critical infrastructure can be defined as physical facilities, supply chains, information technologies and communication networks which, if destroyed, degraded or rendered unavailable for an extended period, would significantly impact on the social or economic wellbeing of the nation or affect Australia’s ability to conduct national defence and ensure national security.

Critical infrastructure extends across several sectors including, banking and finance; communications; energy; food and grocery; health; transport; and water.

CIPMA aims summary:

Modelling, simulation, mapping and analysis of natural or human caused disruptions. Assisting owners and operators of critical infrastructure strengthen resilience. Greater understanding of:

critical infrastructure interdependencies & vulnerabilities physical, social & economic impacts of disruptions

CIPMA insights and valueCIPMA supports government and business decision makers to take a strategic approach to strengthening critical infrastructure resilience through:

providing insights into the behaviour of complex infrastructure networks analysing critical infrastructure relationships and dependencies identifying choke points, single points of failure, and other vulnerabilities examining the flow-on effects of infrastructure failure, and testing mitigation strategies and business continuity plans.

In addition to its core work, CIPMA assists in improving emergency management responses and supports the Australian Crisis Coordination Centre. CIPMA’s work also contributes to building a picture of nationally significant critical infrastructure and helps governments across Australia shape their policies on critical infrastructure resilience.

Why should you work with CIPMA? CIPMA welcomes collaboration with TISN members in undertaking projects focussed on strengthening critical infrastructure resilience.

A priority for CIPMA is to gain a greater understanding of:

i. interdependencies between critical infrastructure sectors, and ii. the physical, social and economic impacts of disruptions to critical infrastructure and supply chains delivering

essential services.

CIPMA is particularly interested in analysing the impacts of disruptions caused by extreme natural hazards, domestic terrorism or malicious cyber activity.

Potential tasking applicants should contact CIPMA at the project conception stage to discuss the scope, timing and likely stakeholder engagement process. CIPMA may use its own resources or seek to work on a cost-recovery basis when undertaking projects.

Working with CIPMA summary:

Assists in improving emergency management responses Strategic priorities:

o cross sectoral interdependencieso supply chain disruptions - caused by:

extreme natural hazards domestic terrorism, and malicious cyber activity

Engage with CIPMA at early stages of project planning.

For more information

Tel: (02) 6141 4505 Email: CIPMA@ag.gov.au Critical Infrastructure Program for Modelling and Analysis Attorney-General’s Department 4 National Circuit, BARTON ACT 2600