Friday 21 October 2005 - The ACS (Australian Computer Society) has expressed concerns over problems with the Australian Customs Service's new Integrated Cargo Shipping (ICS) system which has reportedly exposed sensitive customer data and stymied the flow of goods into the country.

As the professional association for those working in the ICT (information and communications technology) sector, the ACS would like to believe appropriate project management techniques and governance were applied throughout the $250 million ICS project.

Dennis Furini, Chief Executive of the ACS said, "We have confidence in the Customs Service Department, but given the importance of Australia's shipping industry and the large volume of goods brought into the country, it is extremely unfortunate that this system has gone live with apparent inherent problems.

"Australia has an excellent reputation for ICT development and it's very disappointing that this could tarnish our reputation," he said.

Amidst reports that container terminals in Sydney and Melbourne are nearing capacity because the new system is rejecting shipping transactions, the ACS believes that those involved should be allowed to fully focus on an urgent resolution of the problems to get the ports moving again.

"We live in a time when technology is vital for enabling 90 per cent of business processes," said Assoc. Professor Karl Reed, Director of the ACS Computer Systems and Software Engineering Technical Board. "With that level of dependence on software systems, it is critical that ICT professionals and their managers working on major software projects understand and apply appropriate procedures and standards to ensure these systems work properly once they are introduced."

Mr Furini said the ACS is willing to provide independent and professional input to any inquiry or review once the issues have been resolved. .

"This kind of infrastructural software failure can have far greater impact on the Australian economy than the loss of a bridge and we need to learn what lessons we can to ensure this kind of situation can be avoided in the future," he said.

Further information:

Fleur Brown mobile: 0419 270 863 or fleur@launchgroup.com.au

This media release is located online at www.acs.org.au/news/211005a.htm

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.