Government News

South Australia will soon release a new “Science Action Plan” that lays the groundwork for innovation, and broader engagement with higher education and industry stakeholders, says chief scientist, Dr Leanna Read.

Citizens are seeking a direct say in the co-design of digital government services, according to Sinéad O’Brien, a key digital lead with the peak South Australian Department of Premier and Cabinet. 

Former banker, Gavin Slater, will take over the reins at the Commonwealth’s Digital Transformation Agency under new leadership announced by the minister for cities and digital transformation, Angus Taylor.

The federal minister for defence industry, Christopher Pyne, has finalised plans to upgrade Australia’s high-tech future frigate services – with three solutions providers shortlisted for a request for tender.  

Liam Maxwell, a noted UK digital authority, will share insights into government transformation during an exclusive keynote address at the annual FST Government NSW conference on 17 May in Sydney.

The federal government has weighed in behind R&D for intelligent transport systems under a $55 million grant to build 21sth century infrastructure, including self-drive vehicles.

Angus Taylor, assistant minister for cities and digital transformation, has foreshadowed a boost in ICT spending – with the latest projection capped at $9.3 billion in procurement across departments and agencies.

A new “virtual” power plant has been launched in Adelaide with access to cloud services to connect homes and businesses.

Minister for defence Industry, Christopher Pyne, has unveiled a $730 million next-generation technologies funding program to boost defence capability and innovation.

The Australian government has launched a Landing Pad in Singapore to help start-ups, research institutions, multinationals, and ICT players promote innovation, research and development (R&D).

The Commonwealth government has moved to help local councils prepare for a digital future, while investing in smart cities projects, with the first launch in Brisbane.

The Department of Planning and Environment’s planning portal will eventually be a one-stop shop for development applications and complying development certificate submissions.

The Department of Health is seeking industry request for proposals (RFP) to revamp IT systems that support health, aged care and related veterans’ payments.

The NSW government has formalised plans to create a central coordination body, Defence NSW, to boost collaboration across government, industry and higher education.

Brisbane is the latest state to join the Australian government’s cyber security planning program – with a new hub that will galvanise government, industry and law enforcement bodies.