ABOUT THE DIN

Community Cyber Security Education: Mobile Game Design and Prototype

Alpha Echo

About the Company

Alpha Echo is a cybersecurity consultancy specialising in Cyberworthiness and Defence consulting. The company takes a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to cybersecurity, drawing on security specialists, intelligence analysts, behavioural scientists, educators and engineers. Alpha Echo is a DISP partner and supplies services across the Australian Defence ecosystem.

Project Objective

This project involves the design and prototyping of a mobile game that develops cybersecurity knowledge and intuition in a Generation Alpha audience without presenting as an explicitly educational product. The underlying design philosophy is embedded learning: security concepts such as phishing recognition, credential hygiene, social engineering awareness and foundational network principles are acquired through gameplay mechanics rather than direct instruction. Genre is open — a role-playing game or roguelike format is preferred for ongoing engagement and progressive conceptual depth. The product must contain no advertising, no pay-to-win mechanics and no real-currency purchases. The project directly supports the uplift of cybersecurity awareness across the wider Australian community, aligned with Australian Signals Directorate objectives for whole-of-community cyber resilience.

Project Tasks

• Weeks 1–3 (Literature review): Review effective engagement and learning techniques for the target audience; survey embedded-learning game design approaches; produce a short high-level research report.
• Weeks 3–7 (Define product): Develop a game concept and storyboard; define gameplay mechanics that embed each security concept; produce a product development plan and concept document.
• Weeks 7–11 (Develop): Begin developing the game concept to a minimum viable product (MVP); implement core embedded-learning mechanics; iterate based on team feedback.
• Weeks 11–12 (Present): Develop and deliver a brief on the project to internal stakeholders; document findings and next development steps. Output: informational brief and MVP prototype.

Intern Skills

• Postgraduate candidates from any of: cybersecurity, game design and development, education, psychology (behavioural or learning sciences), human-computer interaction / UX design, or software engineering. Cross-disciplinary candidates are particularly welcome.
• Strong communicator; able to work independently and collaboratively; adjusts well as scope evolves; approachable; committed to continuing learning.
• Australian citizenship required; Alpha Echo is a DISP partner. AGSVA security clearance preferred but not essential. 

How to apply

Eligible students (Australian citizens) apply via the online application form and submit a CV and motivation letter by 6 September 2026.