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Low Adoption of Cyber Insurance Among Australian Farmers

Growing Agri-Tech Use Increases Cyber Vulnerabilities

Low Adoption of Cyber Insurance Among Australian Farmers?w=400

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Recent research from WFI Insurance reveals that only 25% of Australian farmers are considering cyber insurance, despite approximately 80% of farms now utilising some form of agricultural technology (agri-tech).
This disparity highlights a significant vulnerability within the sector, as increased digitisation exposes farms to potential cyber threats.

The integration of technologies such as robotic milking systems, smart irrigation, and automated machinery has revolutionised modern farming practices, enhancing efficiency and productivity. However, this digital transformation also introduces new risks, including data breaches, system hacks, and operational disruptions caused by cyber-attacks.

Damien Gallagher, Executive General Manager at WFI Insurance, emphasises that no industry is immune to cyber risk. For farmers, these threats are often less visible compared to traditional on-farm risks, making them easier to overlook. The potential consequences of a cyber incident can be severe, ranging from financial losses due to operational downtime to compromised sensitive data.

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for farmers to adopt comprehensive cyber risk management strategies. This includes implementing robust cybersecurity measures, regularly updating software systems, educating staff on best practices, and considering cyber insurance coverage tailored to the unique needs of agricultural operations.

As the agricultural sector continues to embrace digital innovations, recognising and addressing cyber vulnerabilities will be essential to safeguard the future of Australian farming.

Published:Tuesday, 9th Jun 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

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Aiden Hart 10 Jun 2026

It’s easy to see how cyber stuff gets pushed down the list when you’re already worrying about machinery, weather and livestock, but a hacked irrigation or milking system would be a proper headache. I’d be interested to know whether cyber cover is usually separate or can be bundled into farm insurance without making the premium ridiculous.

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