A message from the ACS Victoria Chair

Today the latest vision of the ICT strategy for the Victorian state government was released by Tony Bates; Deputy Secretary DPC, the Hon. Minister Gavin Jennings MLC;  Special Minister of State, and Geoff Beggs; Executive Director DPC. The focus was information and data reform, digital opportunity, technology reform and capability uplift.

With information and data reform, the key priorities were open information and data, holistic management of information and adopting a systemic approach to government data sharing. In regards to digital opportunities, the key priorities were digital services, mobile delivery and digital engagement with citizens. On technology reform, the key priorities were modern staff productivity systems, cloud-based systems, sharing corporate systems, improved security and shared technology services. Regarding capability uplift, the key priorities were to strengthen ICT project delivery and probity, strengthen ICT procurement and willingness to engage and increased awareness to adopt new technology approaches.

ACS Victoria welcomes the state government’s focus on 26 actionable goals that are SMART – specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely. Actions that result in roadmaps, business cases and approved budgets will produce the mandate that is required to direct action for the Victorian state government bureaucracy.

Victoria has a comparative advantage in the IT industry, supported by world class research institutions, a vibrant start-up sector and the amenities of one of the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne.

ACS Victoria believes the government and states existing IT capabilities and assets should be further developed to establish Victoria as a global leader in IT research, technology development and education and training. This would ensure that Australian governments and business have access to leading IT innovations as well as provide opportunities for the creation of new technologies, businesses and skilled jobs. ACS Victoria further believes that the Victorian state government should support the growth of the Victorian IT ecosystem, address the IT skills shortfall, endorse accreditation of IT education and training and provide more IT assistance for Victorian businesses and citizens.

The full strategy document can be found here: http://www.enterprisesolutions.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Information-Technology-Strategy-for-the-Victorian-Government-2016-to-2020.pdf

Kind regards,



Craig Horne
Chair, ACS Victoria
Email: Branch.Chair.VIC@acs.org.au
Twitter: @ACS_Vic_Chair