Treasurer Scott Morrison launches ACS Technology and Innovation Hub
Sydney, Thursday 12 April: One of Australia’s most innovative and collaborative workspaces has been launched in Barangaroo by federal Treasurer Scott Morrison this afternoon.
Comprising more than 2,300m2 of digitally-enabled floorspace, the new technology and innovation hub was developed by ACS, the professional association for Australia’s technology sector. It was purpose-built to drive the development of digital communities and to facilitate collaboration and innovation.
It’s a place where ICT professionals and businesses can come together and tackle some of the nation’s pressing technology challenges, such as cyber security, personal privacy and artificial intelligence.
ACS President Yohan Ramasundara said the hub is an important milestone towards delivering on the ACS strategy.
“Our strategic plan focuses on three C’s – capacity, capability and catalyst – where capacity and capability are about ensuring our nation has sufficient and necessary tech skills to achieve an economy higher up the value chain, and one which affords higher paying jobs,” Ramasundara said.
“The investment in our new hub is part of ACS’ commitment towards the third ‘C’ – being a catalyst for human capital development, and the innovative creation and adoption of emerging technologies.”
The new hub is part of ACS’ core mission of empowering Australian innovation, and incorporates resources for technology professionals to demonstrate new products, crowdsource new ideas and engage in collaboration.
Fitted out with the latest technology – including 28 screens and an interactive multimedia wall – the collaborative workspace has been designed by prominent Australian designer WMK Architecture to foster a sense of community and connectivity amongst technology professionals.
“We are focussed on supporting the development of new high-growth Australian tech products.
The hub allows software products to be demonstrated to a broad audience, gaining important insights to reimagine the customer experience and iterate throughout the development process,” ACS CEO Andrew Johnson said.
“Ultimately, we believe Australia can be a world leader in technology talent, and this investment shows we are committed to playing our part in realising this vision.”
The innovation hub has been built to meet the strict sustainability standards enforced at Barangaroo and was formally opened with a Welcome to Country ceremony recognising the traditional owners of the land upon which it sits.
Further information
Thomas Shanahan, External Engagement Manager
M – 0417 678 474
E – thomas.shanahan@acs.org.au
About ACS
ACS is the professional association for Australia's Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. More than 30,000 ACS members work in business, education, government and the community. ACS exists to create the environment and provide the opportunities for members and partners to succeed. ACS strives for ICT professionals to be recognised as drivers of innovation in our society, relevant across all sectors, and to promote the formulation of effective policies on ICT and related matters. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.