ACS Supports Government's Framework for the Future to Grow ICT Industry

Thursday 17 April 2003 - The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has reaffirmed its support for Government initiatives to grow the information and communications technology (ICT) sector following the release of the Framework for the Future report.

ACS President Richard Hogg, who met with Senator Alston in Melbourne yesterday, said the Society welcomed the release of the report and discussed a range of options for progressing the key recommendations outlined therein.

"The long-term future of Australia's ICT sector will depend on its ability to innovate and develop globally-competitive products and services to capture opportunities arising from the expanding role of ICT across the economy and society," he said.

"We had a very productive meeting with the Minister, addressing various issues of interest to the profession and considering key initiatives in which the ACS could contribute to making the Framework for the Future a reality."

Mr Hogg said the ACS welcomed a commitment from the Senator to support joint research into unemployment within the ICT sector, and has committed to playing a strategic role in helping to drive discussions and practical initiatives arising from the Framework in coming months.

"The ACS is keen to assist the Government in developing the industry and creating new employment opportunities for the profession. We plan to work through our membership and in partnership with other industry bodies like the AIIA and AEEMA to establish timelines and flesh out the framework to achieve a workable future plan," he said.

This media release is available on the ACS Web site at http://www.acs.org.au/news/170403.htm

ENDS

About the Australian Computer Society: The ACS is the recognised association for information technology (IT) professionals, attracting a large and active membership from all levels of the IT industry and providing a wide range of services to its 16,000+ members. A member of the Australian Council of Professions, the ACS is the public voice of the IT profession and the guardian of professional ethics and standards in the IT industry, with a commitment to the wider community to ensure the beneficial use of IT. See the ACS Home Page for more information.

Media Enquiries:

Richard Hogg, ACS National President, Tel: (0408) 549 531, Email: richard_hogg@acslink.net.au

Caroline New, ACS PR Consultant, Tel: (02) 9555 1986 or (0411) 889 456, Email: cnew@acslink.net.au