Funds will be used to digitise services, provide training and to boost digital skills.
Information Industry Association (AIIA) has welcomed the A$821.9m injection into Victoria’s ICT industry and offers the Victorian Government its support on how best to implement this investment. These funds will be used to digitise services, provide training and to boost digital skills, improve digital infrastructure and create a digital hub in Cremorne.
The Budget announcement demonstrates Victoria’s hunger to be a leader in the ICT space, supporting Victorian’s across the state. The funding boost announced today echoes recommendations put forward earlier this year in the AIIA White Paper, titled ‘Building Australia’s Digital Future in a Post-COVID World’.
The announcement highlights the state’s commitment to addressing the skills gap within the ICT industry in Victoria whilst also addressing the greater need for jobs for all Australians. The A$195.9m investment to establish Digital Victoria and the $626m investment in digital infrastructure and skills will support the Victorian economy rebound from COVID-19.
The AIIA CEO, Ron Gauci said the Victorian Government invest significantly to grow digital skills within the workforce.
“The changes we have seen, fast tracked by COVID-19, has demonstrated the need for innovative digital skills and the importance of being able to work remotely,” he said. “The investments announced today by the Victorian Government positions Victoria on the path to be leaders in the ICT industry.”
Gauci not there is an urgent need for strong local talent to support the growth of digitisation and innovation across the state. Investing in skills is key to ensuring Victoria contributes to the country’s vision of achieving a globally competitive and leading digital economy. Today’s announcement of the A$64m Digital Skills and Jobs program will strongly support this.
“We believe the road to economic recovery is long-term and paved with innovation and investment in technology. It is important to consider that the adverse impact of the pandemic on businesses will continue long after restrictions are relaxed. Whilst job growth is critical and much needed, the AIIA also emphasises the need for long-term solutions to build the state’s resilience and digital capability,” he said.
