Frequently Asked Questions

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As much as we’d love to roll out the red carpet, BSides Ballarat unfortunately cannot cover travel or accommodation expenses for speakers. We’re a community-driven event, run entirely by volunteers, and we rely heavily on our sponsors to keep things running. We’re always grateful to those who make the journey to share their knowledge with the regional infosec community!

We’re so glad you asked! There are many ways you can support BSides Ballarat:

  • Got something to share? Submit to our Call for Presentations! We're looking for talks, workshops, villages, and other creative content.
  • Spread the word! Repost our announcements, share the event with your networks, and help us reach more awesome people.
  • Know a company that might be interested in sponsoring? Introduce us! We love building mutually beneficial partnerships.
  • Volunteer when the call for volunteers goes live. It’s a great way to meet people and help the event run smoothly.
  • Be part of the community year-round — support others, share knowledge, and bring good vibes to Ballarat and beyond.

Definitely not! Every BSides event has its own unique flavour — shaped by its local community, speakers, and vibe. BSides Ballarat brings a distinct regional twist, with a strong community spirit and plenty of Aussie charm. If you ever get the chance, try attending BSides in different cities — you’ll find something new and awesome at each one!

BSides Ballarat is packed with hands-on learning and practical sessions for all skill levels. This year, we’re offering two full-day workshops:

  • Python for Security (1 Day) – Learn how to use Python for security automation, scripting, and tool development.
  • Intro to Cybersecurity (1 Day) – A beginner-friendly deep dive into threats, networks, ethical hacking, and cyber defense.

Alongside these, expect talks and workshops on:

  • Beginning a Cybersecurity Career – Guidance for newcomers looking to break into the industry.
  • Cyber Defense & Incident Response – Learn how to detect, contain, and recover from security incidents.
  • Web App Hacking – Hands-on techniques for testing and securing web applications.
  • Digital Forensics – Discover how to investigate cyber incidents and analyze evidence.

Yes! We’ve got you covered with some refreshments:

  • Morning tea will be provided on May 3rd and 4th.
  • Afternoon tea will also be available (exact details to come).

As for swag, we’re working on it! Depending on sponsorships, there may be stickers, shirts, or other goodies—stay tuned for updates. And of course, plenty of coffee options will be available nearby to keep you fueled throughout the event.

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