Citing Microsoft's own somewhat patchy security record, Australian industry commentators have called into question the software maker's worthiness to advise the Federal Government on the country's cyber security policy.

Recent industry reports have suggested that despite its being snubbed by US government officials during formulation of America's official cyber security efforts, Microsoft Australia is playing a key advisory role in relation to Australia's first cybersecurity framework.

Graham Ingram, managing director of AusCERT, pointed out that the Australian government has some of the best IT security units in the country to advise them, such as the Australian Federal Police high-tech crime unit and the Defense Signals Directorate (DSD).

"The DSD is a highly capable agency and not really in need of advice," Ingram told ZDNet Australia. "They set the IT security standards for the government. Not only do they provide advice, but they provide the testing to determine whether a system is suitable for government use. The testing is really tough."

"Microsoft is conspicuous by its presence in terms of security issues," he added. "On the other hand over the last 12 months they have been putting into practice programs designed to fix the problem." Ingram said it was yet to be seen how successful the initiatives would be, but Microsoft seemed to be putting in a sincere effort to rectify security flaws in its products.

Not surprisingly, Anthony Rumble, managing director of open-source proponents Everythinglinux, was also skeptical about suggestions that Microsoft would have involvement in formulating Australia's cybersecurity plan.

"For good security you really need a vendor-neutral advisor who doesn’t have a vested interest in any particular product," he said. "Frankly Microsoft is the last place you would go to for security fixes. Microsoft products have had more security breaches than just about any other software company."

Rob Durie, executive director of the Australian Information Industry Association, said "Microsoft is an important platform for the Federal Government so they are important advisors in that regard."

Microsoft has yet to respond to ZDNet Australia by time of publication. Therefore, it is not known whether Microsoft is advising the government on security or whether the government is suggesting ways for Microsoft to improve its products.