Full Name
Andrea Leask
Job Title
Deputy CEO
Organisation
Netsafe
Speaker Bio
Andrea is Netsafe's Deputy CEO and Chief Digital Harms Officer. Andrea and her team provide New Zealand's primary response service to individuals and communities impacted by online harms. They also provide education, support and advice to prevent and deter online harm.

Netsafe is New Zealand's independent, non-profit online safety organization dedicated to helping individuals navigate the digital world safely. Established in 1998, Netsafe has been at the forefront of providing free support, advice, and education to people of all ages across the country. Netsafe collaborates with government agencies, law enforcement, industry partners, academics, and community organizations to promote safe and positive online experiences. Netsafe's services include assisting individuals facing online abuse, scams, or other digital challenges, and offering guidance on a wide range of online safety topics.

Andrea has led transformational initiatives that enhance protections for individuals and communities. From developing and implementing national frameworks to managing high-stakes relationships with government, law enforcement, and global technology firms, Andrea has been instrumental in shaping policy, and industry best practices to reduce digital harm at a systemic level.

A driving force for change, Andrea has successfully influenced regulatory reform, multi-sector collaboration, and cross-border policy initiatives, ensuring that online safety remains a priority in an increasingly complex digital world. Her ability to translate insights into action has led to the development of proactive strategies, crisis response protocols, and victim-centered interventions, helping to minimize harm while empowering individuals and organizations with the tools to navigate online risks.

Andrea is the 2025 NZ winner of the Women in Security Awards in the category of Safeguarding Networks and People Online. She is also the Coordinator for the GASA Oceania chapter.
Andrea Leask