Inclusivity, opportunity, impact: CodeFest 2025 powered by NAB + HTB

Last year, Hack The Box was proud to partner with NAB during October Cyber Month to bring the 2025 CodeFest Capture The Flag (CTF) competition to life. 

Dedicated to fostering the next generation of cybersecurity talent across Australia, the event gave students the unique opportunity to get hands-on experience with an in-person CTF, and gain insights from real professionals operating in the space.  

The positive response was overwhelming, with over 200 expressions of interest to attend from universities and TAFEs in Melbourne, and almost 40% of those being young women with an interest in cyber.

Creating these safe, inclusive spaces for the community is something both Hack The Box and NAB are deeply committed to. Diversity isn’t just about representation; it’s about building stronger teams, encouraging new perspectives, and ensuring the future of cybersecurity reflects the society it protects.  

Through this collaboration, we were able to advocate for the creation of opportunities that help young people build real, practical skills in technology. 

The NAB x Hack the Box CodeFest gives students the chance to step outside of the classroom and get hands-on with cybersecurity, learning to problem-solve, collaborate, and push their technical abilities in ways that traditional lectures can’t always provide.

At the conclusion of the CTF, NAB hosted a guest panel and networking opportunities, giving students a chance to engage directly with real world experts including NAB’s Executive for Cyber. The panel was made up of Rob Smith, Manager for Threat Intelligence, Jacqueline Ryder, Head of Offensive Security Thomas Dingjan, and moderated by Hack the Box’s Heather Hoddinott. 

Students asked a range of questions, including what helps you stand apart from others when entering the workforce. The consensus was clear: a degree alone isn’t enough. Passion, curiosity, and the drive to keep learning are just as important. 

NAB’s Head of Offensive Security, Thomas Dingjan was excited to be on the panel and networking with the students, stating: “Hack The Box has been a key part of my learning journey, so seeing it come to life at NABxHTB CodeFest is incredible. It’s not just about challenges—it’s about real-time learning, curiosity, and community.” 

Networking, collaboration, building projects, and platforms like Hack The Box all play a vital role in shaping the next wave of cyber professionals. Hearing directly from some of  NAB’s Security leadership about their career journeys gave students an added layer of inspiration, showing that there are many pathways into a rewarding role in cyber.

CodeFest 2025 was more than just a competition; it was a showcase of what’s possible when industry leaders and innovative training come together to empower the next generation. 

HTB is thrilled to continue nurturing this partnership with NAB. Ultimately, when we invest in people and make sure everyone has a seat at the table, we’re investing in the resilience of our entire digital economy and wider ecosystem.

Want to host your own CTF with Hack The Box? 

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