ACS applauds NSW Government for putting the digital economy first
30 September 2011: The Australian Computer Society (ACS) today welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement to include the digital economy in the first sectors targeted under the Industry Action Plan.
ACS President, Anthony Wong said, “Given the potential of ICT to drive productivity and advance Australia’s international competitiveness, the ACS strongly believes technology deserves significant attention from government bodies. This initiative announced by NSW Deputy Premier, Andrew Stoner, positions the digital economy as a key sector in the future of NSW".
Recent findings from the ACS commissioned Australian ICT Statistical Compendium 2010 revealed the contributions of the ICT industry to the NSW economy were significant, including employment of over 115,000 persons. The study also revealed over two fifths (40.8%) of Australia’s ICT professionals are NSW based and that the states ICT revenue amounts to $32.8 billion.”
Mr Wong said, “The 2010 ICT Statistical Compendium highlights the role the NSW ICT industry plays in Australia’s overall ICT growth, including the creation of over 22,000 new jobs from 2003 to 2009..”
“We are pleased to see the NSW Government prioritise ICT as an enabler for product and service delivery and economic prosperity. We look forward to the findings and recommendations of the Taskforce which will help strengthen the nation’s ICT industry.”
ACS NSW Branch Chair, Patrick Wilson said, “Over the past few years we’ve witnessed the solidity of ICT in Australia as the industry, despite economic downturns, continued to drive productivity gains across all sectors.”
Mr. Wilson said “As the National Broadband Network is rolled out, we believe the Government must leverage opportunities to stimulate economic growth and community building programs. As the Taskforce is to focus intently on issues like digital content, information services, smart networks and intelligent technologies, we hope through the Industry Action Plan, NSW will be able to truly maximise the benefits of the NBN.”
“The ACS looks forward to participating in the digital economy Taskforce and hopes to encourage through online consultations, metropolitan and regional forums and requests for submissions, engagement with the community,” said Mr. Wilson.
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Media information:
Clementine Stuart-Russell
ph: (02) 9492 1034 or mobile: 0414 490 092
Seni Murni
(02) 9299 3666 or mobile: 0410 029 706
About the ACS:
The ACS (Australian Computer Society) is the recognised professional association for those working in Information and Communications Technology, seeking to raise the standing of ICT professionals and represent their views to government, industry and the community. A member of the Australian Council of Professions, the ACS is the guardian of professional ethics and standards in the ICT sector, committed to ensuring the beneficial use of ICT for all Australians. It provides both members and non-members with opportunities for professional education, networking and certification, as well as enabling them to contribute to the development of their profession. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.