Technology… What’s It Mean for Crime and Criminal Justice

Technology is transforming how crime is committed—and how justice is served. From cyberattacks to digital forensics, the criminal justice system is undergoing rapid evolution to keep pace with tech-savvy offenders.

As criminal activity increasingly moves into the digital world, there’s growing demand for professionals who understand both criminal behaviour and the technology used to fight it. If you’re interested in criminology, policing, cybersecurity or law, this is a dynamic and meaningful career path to explore.

The Rise of Tech-Enabled Crime

Cybercrime has become one of the fastest-growing threats to Australia’s national security and economy. According to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), cybercrime reports in 2022–23 rose by 23 per cent, with one incident reported every six minutes. The estimated cost to Australian businesses and individuals runs into billions of dollars each year.

Cybercrime includes activities like identity theft, online fraud, hacking, ransomware, and phishing scams. But technology is also being used to facilitate more traditional crimes such as drug trafficking, money laundering and child exploitation—often across international borders.

How Law Enforcement Is Evolving

Building Tech-Savvy Forces

“We’re seeing a major shift in criminality,” says Professor Colin Rogers, expert in policing and law enforcement. “Traditional crimes are still happening—but the way they’re committed is changing, often enabled by emerging technologies.”

Police and justice systems must now address not just physical crime scenes, but also virtual ones. Officers may need to secure digital evidence, understand data trails, and work alongside specialists in cyber forensics or IT security.

Recruiting Tech Specialists

Rather than training every officer in deep technical skills, some agencies are now hiring dedicated IT and cybersecurity professionals to support investigations. The result is a more integrated, cross-disciplinary approach to justice—where criminologists, data analysts, digital forensic experts and law enforcement work together.

There’s a growing push for professionals in financial services, cybersecurity and intelligence to consider roles in national security or policing—especially in areas like anti-money laundering, fraud detection and risk analysis.

If you’re thinking about entering the field, you might consider a pathway such as a criminal justice degree or intelligence and security qualification.

Technology in Legal Services

Technology is also changing how legal professionals work. From cloud-based case files to virtual consultations, the legal field is becoming more accessible, flexible and mobile.

Kim Bailey, a law lecturer at Charles Sturt University, notes, “Today’s lawyers can practise anywhere with internet access. Most legal work—from conveyancing to document review—can now be done online.”

This shift opens up opportunities to provide legal services to remote and regional areas, and increases access to justice for people who might not otherwise afford or reach traditional legal services.

Meeting the Challenge

Criminals are adapting—and our justice system must do the same. This means the industry is always evolving and in need of forward-thinking professionals. Whether you’re interested in law enforcement, legal advocacy, policy or tech-enabled crime prevention, there’s a place for your skills in this exciting space.

To get started, consider studying one of these career-relevant qualifications:

• Bachelor of Social Science (Criminal Justice)
• Graduate Certificate in Intelligence Analysis
• Explore all security and intelligence courses

Final Thoughts

The intersection of technology and crime will only deepen in the coming years. That’s why Australia needs smart, adaptable minds who can work across both digital and justice domains. If you’re curious, committed and ready to make a real difference, a future in criminal justice could be your perfect path.