A cyberattack on a major Australian book distribution network is continuing to disrupt the publishing industry, with independent bookstores and authors facing difficulties securing stock weeks after the incident.

The attack affected Alliance Distribution Services (ADS), a subsidiary of Hachette Australia, after unauthorised activity was detected on its computer systems on July 18.

The disruption has affected the movement of books across Australia, with some independent retailers reporting that they are receiving only a fraction of their usual supplies. New releases have reportedly received priority, while older titles remain harder to obtain.

For smaller bookstores, the timing is particularly concerning as retailers prepare for the busy Christmas trading period. 

Melbourne bookseller Jaye Chin-Dusting said supply had fallen significantly, forcing businesses to consider alternative sources that can increase costs.

Authors have also been affected. Events, school visits and book launches have been complicated because publishers cannot always guarantee that sufficient copies will be available.

Hachette Australia has apologised to booksellers, authors and readers, saying that restoring its systems securely remains its priority. However, the company has not provided a firm timeline for a complete return to normal distribution.

Cybersecurity experts warn that incidents such as this demonstrate how vulnerable entire supply chains can become when critical digital systems are disrupted. Experts also expect artificial intelligence to make it easier for cybercriminals to identify weaknesses and conduct sophisticated attacks.

The incident highlights a broader lesson for businesses: cybersecurity is no longer simply an IT concern. A disruption to one company’s systems can quickly affect retailers, suppliers, creators and customers across an entire industry.

For now, Australian booksellers and authors are hoping distribution can return to normal before the crucial end-of-year sales period.