A recruitment drive for cyber security contractors is likely to present the federal government with a number of challenges after the launch of a $230 million strategy, consultants have warned. Last month, the government announced it was prepared to strike back against foreign cyber attacks with funds to be spent recruiting hundreds of police and cyber security specialists.

The funding boost comes after another $400 million was allocated to pay for staff with hacking experience to work for the Australian Signals Directorate, a key intelligence agency. Karen Evans, managing director of talent management firm Acendre, said she expected the government to launch a recruitment drive with up to 900 positions filled in the coming year.