Australian-first cloud platform developed at Tonsley nears US certification

xClave is an Australian-first cloud platform designed for the defence industry to securely store and manage highly sensitive information. Secure State Founder and Managing Director Luke Smith became the first person outside the United States to meet the complex security requirements for handling classified information for the US Department of Defence – currently positioning xClave as the only secure sovereign platform in Australia.  

The platform was developed after Luke identified a gap in the market for an affordable, secure workspace that met compliance regulations.  

“When you’re working in the defence supply chain, there are strict classified security levels and that information must be handled in a very specific way,” Secure State Co-Founder and Director of Marketing and Communications Amy Smith said. 

“The compliance requirements are rigorous, and you have to have a secure environment particularly when it comes to shared online workspaces.   

“For many businesses, traditional cybersecurity solutions are financially out of reach, so we’ve created something affordable and ready to deploy. It’s aimed at assisting companies operating in the defence space who risk losing contracts if they cannot meet compliance requirements.” 

Instead of building a custom solution at a cost of millions, Secure State developed xClave as a cost-effective alternative, available to organisations of all sizes as an affordable monthly per-user subscription. 

Another key advantage of xClave is its zero-latency performance, removing lag or delays in the real-time exchange of information between workspaces. This will allow users to view and work with files at the best possible quality, which is particularly beneficial for highly detailed CAD drawings. 

Secure State was able to progress xClave to the certification stage after receiving a $100,000 grant in January 2026 through the Defence Industry Development Grants program.  

“We help businesses reach the level of maturity needed to be able to apply for tenders, win contracts and grow within the defence supply chain. Having the certification approved by the US will be significant as without it they will be unable to supply to US and UK based companies,” Amy said. 

Founded in 2021 in Luke and Amy’s lounge room, Secure State quickly gained momentum with its growing client base. In mid-2022 the company made the move to Tonsley where some of its clients including electronics manufacturer REDARC are based. 

Secure State has now grown from a small start-up into an established cybersecurity business, building momentum through a growing and diverse client base. 

Originally operating from a small pod in the MAB, the business quickly outgrew the space, expanding from three to 12 staff in just 18 months. Wanting to remain at Tonsley, Secure State relocated across the road to the Administration Building, where its 23 staff are now based. 

Being located at Tonsley opened the door for collaboration opportunities, with the company providing services to fellow tenants including SAGE Automation and Micro-X. With further growth forecast and increased support for the defence sector on the horizon, the company remains focused on sustainable expansion. 

“The initial goal was to achieve around 100 per cent growth year-on-year, but we’re currently tracking closer to 240 per cent,” Amy said. 

“Our revenue in the first year was $120,000. The following year it grew to around $1.2 million, and this year we’re forecasting revenue of $5 million. 

“We have a strong presence in the defence sector, particularly working with supply chain companies and manufacturers. However, we’re also focused on supporting South Australian businesses in growth phases, as we enjoy being part of that journey with them. 

“We’re surrounded by clients who need support, so our priority is maintaining sustainable growth. Our plan is to continue growing, whether that’s through acquiring another IT business or continuing to expand within Tonsley.”