EXPAND: Cyber Resilience and AI: How to navigate a practical journey for advice businesses
Speakers
Michael Connory
CEO • Aphore
Michael Connory is a globally recognised cybersecurity expert and CEO of Aphore, a leading provider of cyber and technology services. Since 2018, Michael has directly supported over 300 Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) holders, including prominent organisations such as AMP, Entiriti, Centrepoint, Count, Lifespan, and Godfrey Pembroke, guiding them through the complexities of cyber risk management and regulatory compliance. A prolific author, Michael has written three influential books on technology and cybersecurity, with his insights regularly published across major media and business publications. He has been deeply involved in pioneering cybersecurity research initiatives since 2017, contributing to one of the world's largest ongoing cyber research programs. Holding international certifications in both ISO 27001 (Information Security Management) and ISO 27035 (Incident Management), Michael combines deep technical expertise with an approachable, engaging style to inspire action, build cyber resilience, and foster a culture of trust and security across the financial services sector.
Bastien Treptel
Bastien is a renowned cybersecurity expert, entrepreneur, and futurist with a compelling personal journey from teenage hacker to leading authority in cyber defense. At 14, Bastien's fascination with technology led him into hacking, and by 16, he had accessed one of Australia's major banks, accessing credit card details. It was his love of pizza that led to the police tracking him down and ultimately reforming his ways.
Not your typical boring Cyber guy Bastien is clever, entertaining, and passionate, and he now uses his time to spread the word on how dangerous and creative cyber criminals are. Bastien is dedicated to inspiring everyone to appreciate security as it becomes an essential part of our lives as we move into a hyper-digitised world.
In 2007, Bastien co-founded CTRL Group, Australia's progressive information security firm dedicated to protecting businesses from cyber risks. Under his leadership, CTRL Group sets new standards in cybersecurity, offering services ranging from audits and ethical hacking to monitoring, advisory, and education. The company's success culminated in a multimillion-dollar acquisition in November 2021.
Bastien is the host of the “CyberHacker” podcast series which has over 100,000 subscribers and is currently in production for season 2.
Bastien Treptel's unique blend of real-world experience, technical expertise, and engaging storytelling makes him a sought-after speaker aiming to understand and navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and technological innovation.
Watch Bastien's video
Not your typical boring Cyber guy Bastien is clever, entertaining, and passionate, and he now uses his time to spread the word on how dangerous and creative cyber criminals are. Bastien is dedicated to inspiring everyone to appreciate security as it becomes an essential part of our lives as we move into a hyper-digitised world.
In 2007, Bastien co-founded CTRL Group, Australia's progressive information security firm dedicated to protecting businesses from cyber risks. Under his leadership, CTRL Group sets new standards in cybersecurity, offering services ranging from audits and ethical hacking to monitoring, advisory, and education. The company's success culminated in a multimillion-dollar acquisition in November 2021.
Bastien is the host of the “CyberHacker” podcast series which has over 100,000 subscribers and is currently in production for season 2.
Bastien Treptel's unique blend of real-world experience, technical expertise, and engaging storytelling makes him a sought-after speaker aiming to understand and navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and technological innovation.
Watch Bastien's video
This dynamic session features a dual presentation and engaging conversation between two cyber experts - a reformed cyber hacker who was able to get into one of the major banks at the age of 16 and the other contributing to one of the world's largest ongoing cyber research programs with extensive experience in financial services cyber risk management. Together, they will guide AFSL and business leaders through the evolving cybersecurity and AI landscape. The session will explore ASIC's expectations, the real-world threat environment, and how AI is reshaping not only cyber defence but also business growth and operational efficiency. This is an interactive, story-driven session — two different perspectives merging into one practical roadmap. The speakers will share real incidents and practical advice and daily best practices, ensuring the session remains engaging and insightful.
Learning Outcomes
Attendees will learn about the following:
- Understand ASIC’s expectations for AFSL cybersecurity governance and how AI impacts compliance and risk management.
- Identify current and emerging cyber threats, including AI impersonation and social engineering, affecting financial services.
- Apply practical cyber resilience strategies using AI tools, credential protection, and multi-factor authentication.
- Explore how AI enhances cybersecurity, operational efficiency, and client engagement through automation and data-driven insights.
CPD: 0.25 hrs General / 0.75 hrs Client Care & Practice / 0.25 hrs Reg. Compliance and Consumer Protection
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 19, 2025 • 4:30 PM - 5:45 PM
Location: Riverview 4
Type: Session