Australia: Cyber Security Centre adopted guidance on quantum technology pertaining to communications

On 18 March 2026, the Cyber Security Centre adopted the guidance on quantum technology pertaining to communications. The guidance describes how quantum mechanics, such as superposition and entanglement, may offer unique applications in encoding and transmitting information. The guidance clarifies that quantum communications do not currently offer a practical cybersecurity solution and should not replace classical cryptographic security. Instead, the Centre recommends that organisations prioritise strengthening their security posture by planning for the transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and monitoring evolving standards. The primer identifies several potential risks, including vulnerabilities in authentication and identity security if classical channels remain insecure, as quantum communications often depend on these channels. It also identifies supply chain risks related to specialised quantum hardware, interoperability challenges with existing infrastructure, and key management as a priority area for security in a post-quantum environment. It notes that current quantum communication technology faces scalability constraints.