The breach was detected on June 30, with the airline reporting "unusual activity" within the system that stored sensitive customer information including names, email addresses, phone numbers, birth dates, and frequent flyer numbers. Although Qantas has assured customers that passport details, credit card information, and financial data were not affected, it anticipates a substantial portion of personal data may have been compromised.

Upon detecting the breach, Qantas took immediate measures to contain the situation and has since been collaborating with authorities such as the Australian Federal Police and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. CEO Vanessa Hudson extended apologies to customers and underscored the lack of impact on Qantas operations and airline safety. This cyber incident follows recent warnings from the FBI about threats targeting the airline sector, highlighting a trend of increased cyber attacks on major companies worldwide, including Hawaiian Airlines and WestJet.

The Qantas breach adds to a growing list of data leaks in Australia, with several incidents reported this year, making it clear that the data protection landscape is increasingly perilous. Australian Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind has urged businesses to enhance their security measures as threats persist.