Australia is grappling with a significant IT outage that has disrupted a range of essential services, including banks, supermarkets, telecommunications, media outlets, and airlines. The National Cyber Security Coordinator confirmed on Friday that a “large-scale technical outage” is affecting numerous companies and services across the country.
The coordinator’s statement indicated that the issue appears to be related to a technical problem with a third-party software platform used by the affected entities. Currently, there is no indication that this outage is linked to a cyber security incident. The agency is working closely with key stakeholders to address the situation.
IT security firm Crowdstrike reported that there have been incidents of Microsoft’s Windows operating system crashing, which could be contributing to the widespread disruptions. Social media images revealed blank flight information screens at Sydney Airport and malfunctioning self-service checkouts at major supermarket chains Woolworths and Coles.
Sydney Airport has advised travelers to anticipate delays despite flights continuing to operate. “We have activated our contingency plans and deployed additional staff to our terminals,” the airport said in a post on X. Melbourne Airport also noted that check-in procedures for some airlines have been impacted, urging passengers to allow extra time and check with their airlines for flight updates.
Both the Australia Broadcasting Corporation and Network Ten confirmed that their systems are also experiencing issues due to the outage.
In New South Wales, police have advised that in case of an emergency, individuals should call the emergency number 000. The situation is being closely monitored as authorities work to resolve the disruptions affecting critical services across the nation.