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The Australian Government has ushered in a new era of streamlined and interconnected public services with the release of the Data and Digital Government Strategy (the Strategy). This comprehensive roadmap charts a course toward delivering user-centric, secure, and seamless services for both individuals and businesses, leveraging cutting-edge data and digital capabilities.
The Strategy, stretching its vision to 2030, represents a milestone as the first unified blueprint outlining the government’s commitment to optimising its data assets and digital prowess.
Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for Finance, highlighted the imperative of aligning the Australian Public Service (APS) with technological advancements while ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in service provisions. “Our aim is to offer efficient, user-friendly, cost-effective, and secure services.”
Central to the Strategy is feedback garnered from extensive consultations with the Australian community. Minister Gallagher highlighted the community’s emphasis on trust within public services and the necessity to ensure universal access as government services transition online.
Additionally, collaborations with industries, especially Australian suppliers focusing on innovative technologies, and a call for closer partnerships between government, economy, and society to co-design policies and services were key insights driving the Strategy.
In the months following the May 2023 release of the Data and Digital Government Strategy, the Australian Government embarked on an extensive six-week consultation period from June to July 2023. During this time, a diverse spectrum of stakeholders participated actively in shaping this visionary strategy.
Members of the public, community representatives, advocacy groups, state and territory governments, industry leaders, academic experts, and the Australian Public Service (APS) all contributed their insights. Engaging both in-person and online platforms, these stakeholders were encouraged to voice their perspectives through surveys and an open call for submissions via the dedicated platform, dataanddigital.gov.au.
This inclusive and multi-dimensional approach ensured a comprehensive gathering of views, enriching the Strategy with a tapestry of perspectives vital for its comprehensive vision.
The Strategy delineates five missions aimed at expediting digital transformation throughout the APS:
- Delivering for all people and business
- Simple and seamless services
- Government for the future
- Trusted and secure
- Data and Digital foundations
Accompanying the Strategy is an Implementation Plan spotlighting initiatives poised to yield substantial outcomes. It establishes transparent, comprehensive scorecards across government entities, ensuring unprecedented accountability.
Chris Fechner, CEO of the Digital Transformation Agency, underscored the Strategy as a testament to the maturation of the Australian Government’s digital transformation. “This Strategy paves the way for coordinated government investments in data and digital realms, driving enhanced impact and efficacy,” he affirmed.
Fechner highlighted ongoing initiatives, such as the updated Digital Service Standard and the Charter of Partnerships and Engagement, underscoring trust-building and collaborative approaches with stakeholders.
However, achieving the 2030 vision necessitates unwavering commitment. It calls for bolstering data and digital expertise within the APS and forging more effective partnerships with industry, community sectors, and academia.
“Each public servant holds a crucial role in fostering a streamlined, secure, and connected government experience for all,” emphasised Chris Fechner.
The Strategy marks a pivotal step toward redefining the Australian government’s digital landscape, fostering collaboration, innovation, and heightened efficiency, ultimately enriching the public experience.
Australia is steadfastly pursuing its digital ambitions, spearheading a transformative journey that converges cutting-edge technologies, notably Artificial Intelligence (AI), to revolutionise its digital landscape and drive a comprehensive national digital transformation.
In a thorough report by the National AI Centre, Australia is poised to solidify its stance as a global frontrunner in Artificial Intelligence by strategically transforming cutting-edge AI research into lucrative commercial prospects.
Termed “Australia’s Artificial Intelligence Ecosystem – Catalysing an AI Industry”, the report delves into a comprehensive analysis, empowering businesses, investors, government bodies, and research institutions with the latest insights to propel Australia’s AI landscape forward.
