PECAN+ CTF

PECAN+ is a national Capture The Flag (CTF) style cyber security competition for Australian high school-aged competitors (in years 10-12). PECAN+ CTF is led by Edith Cowan University's School of Science as a collaborative initiative that brings together higher education institutions, cyber security industry, government, teachers and students around the aim of raising cyber security awareness, skills and aspirations.

Our 2025 event is now finished. Stay tuned for PECAN+ CTF 2026 updates.

2026 Key Dates

• National registrations open mid-year.
• PECAN+ CTF Training Day = Saturday August 22nd, 2026 (State/Territory dependant).
• PECAN+ CTF Competition Day = Sunday August 23rd, 2026.

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Fast Facts

• PECAN+ is a Capture The Flag style of competition - compete to solve cyber security challenges and correctly uncover a digital "flag" (string of text).
• Challenge categories include cryptography, OSINT, reverse engineering, steganography, exploitation and more.
• PECAN+ tests problem solving and teamwork, as well as cyber security and computing skills. Challenges range from Beginner through to Advanced.
• PECAN+ CTF is a free event. Registration includes access to Training Day offerings as well as Competition Day.
• PECAN+ CTF is open to Australian students in years 10–12. Compete in teams of up to four. Individual registrants will be placed into a team.
• Training Day and Competition Day are run in person at locations in every State/Territory.
• National awards and prizes for Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced divisions, as well as Top All Female teams.
• PECAN+ CTF is proudly founded and led by Edith Cowan University in collaboration with partner organisations around Australia.
• PECAN+ CTF is made possible through the support of national and regional Sponsors and supporters. Find out about 2026 sponsorship opportunities.
• Follow along on social media using #PECANplus2026