The Australian government will begin a pilot program for a new security labelling scheme to help consumers evaluate the safety of smart devices before buying them.
The Security Labelling Scheme for Smart Devices will let manufacturers and vendors test the framework before its full rollout in 2027. Developed with the Connected Technology Alliance, the initiative will introduce labels that allow buyers to compare product security levels quickly.
Tony Burke, Minister for Home Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship, Cyber Security, and the Arts, will launch the pilot during his opening keynote at the Connecting Technology Summit in Sydney from September 1-3, 2026. The event is Australia’s only industry-led conference focused solely on connected technology.
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A panel at the summit will discuss the label’s effects on consumer security, its influence on the smart device industry, and broader implications. Early participants in the pilot include NetComm, ASSA ABLOY, and Telstra. Vendors can register to showcase their security credentials before the scheme’s full implementation.
The program aims to make security a competitive advantage. Companies that join early may gain an edge as consumers become more aware of digital risks. The labels simplify technical details, helping buyers consider security alongside price and features.
The scheme responds to the growing number of connected devices in homes and workplaces, many of which lack consistent protections. While the labelling program won’t remove all threats, it may encourage manufacturers to prioritize security earlier in development.
The summit will also address other topics shaping connected systems, including cybersecurity, AI, interoperability, and digital infrastructure. Sessions will examine Physical AI—the integration of artificial intelligence into physical devices—and the governance challenges it presents.
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Additional discussions will cover edge computing, satellite communications, and digital twins, reflecting the fast changes in connected technologies. The event will offer networking opportunities, including a welcome reception with refreshments to encourage professional relationships.
Sponsors include Viden, Securus Consulting Group, and GHD. Tickets are available, with discounts for Connected Technology Alliance members.
The pilot’s success hinges on industry participation and consumer awareness. If effective, the labels could become as common as energy efficiency ratings, changing how Australians purchase smart locks and connected appliances. For now, the focus remains on testing the framework and resolving issues before the 2027 deadline.
