AuSAE - AIIA delivers four-point plan for digital innovation

AIIA delivers four-point plan for digital innovation

21 Jul 2016 9:59 AM | Deleted user

Calls for the government to assist in transforming the digital economy.

The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA), which represents organisations in Australia's digital ecosystem, has outlined four key areas the new Coalition government must prioritise in order to help transform Australia to a digital economy.

AIIA CEO Rob Fitzpatrick congratulated the Turnbull-led government on its election but warned Australia's prosperity hinges on continued technological innovation in order to create jobs, grow the economy and improve global competitiveness.

"Digital technology is advancing rapidly, from smart phones that monitor your fitness, measure speed, height and distance, and remotely manage home thermostats and lights, to the way we manage our crops, cattle and mines, research cures for disease, manage city congestion, and deliver services to the most remote parts of our country. Without a doubt, digital technology will underpin our entire economy," he said.

In order to lead this innovation revolution, Fitzpatrick points to four key areas of focus:

1. Development and maturity of Australia’s digital talent and skills base

In order to grow and develop a data-driven workforce, the AIIA suggests a coordinated approach to STEM education, encouraging further diversity (women and mature aged workers) and improved opportunities for information and communications technology uni graduates.

2. Business adoption and integration of digital technology

Digitisation can improve many aspects of a business and while large corporations are educated and equipped to handle this transformation, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) can struggle.

"They [SMEs] lack awareness of what options are available to them and they lack the capacity to implement changes even when they identify them, limiting the ability to grow their business," Fitzpatrick said.

The AIIA encourages SMEs to take advantage of proposed tax cuts to invest in the development of their digital capabilities, education and training resources.

3. Delivery of high performing, competitive digital infrastructure; and

Fast and reliable internet is essential to digital economic growth. The AIIA urges the government to accelerate the roll-out of the NBN and 5G wireless technologies.

"It is an undisputed fact that Australia is falling behind in broadband speeds, and the delay in improving our infrastructure is putting our economic prosperity at risk," Fitzpatrick said.

4. Digital transformation of government.

A recent study by Deloitte Access Economics revealed 40% of the estimated 811 million annual federal and state government transactions are still effected through traditional channels.

"This past election itself has been a great example. With electronic voting in place, we would have known the outcome of the election far sooner and the electoral process would cost fewer taxpayer dollars to run in the long term," Fitzpatrick said.

Despite the advent of digitisation, the global finance industry is limping into the technological age, still reliant upon decades old services and fee structures.

According to a recent survey, 64% of traditional financial service providers don't feel well prepared to engage with digital natives and 50% of fintech companies only feel reasonably well prepared.

This article was originally sourced from Finder.

Strengthening Trans-Tasman Connections: AuSAE and Tourism New Zealand Business Events Renew Partnership

Association professionals across Australia and New Zealand have even more reason to explore trans-Tasman opportunities. AuSAE is proud to announce the renewal of its longstanding partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events, celebrating 11 years of collaboration.

For over a decade, this partnership has strengthened connections between the two countries, helping associations expand networks, share knowledge, and deliver world-class events.

Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer at AuSAE, said:

“Our partnership with Tourism New Zealand Business Events has opened doors for association leaders to plan unforgettable events and connect with peers across the Tasman. Together, we’ve created opportunities, shared knowledge, and elevated the experiences of our members and their delegates. This partnership reinforces our commitment to fostering strong trans-Tasman collaborations, helping associations innovate, grow, and deliver outstanding value to their members.”

Helen Bambry, Business Events Manager at Tourism New Zealand, added:

“Partnering with AuSAE means we can directly support association professionals in bringing their next international business event to New Zealand – offering assistance, funding, and support to ensure exceptional experiences for both organisers and delegates.”

Watch the Tourism New Zealand Business Events video

What this partnership means for you

For Australian associations:

Receive expert guidance and support to bring conferences or member events to New Zealand.
Access funding assistance through Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
Expand your network and build partnerships with New Zealand peers and industry leaders.
Deliver international experiences for members and delegates just across the Tasman.

For New Zealand associations:

Strengthen professional connections with Australian association leaders through AuSAE’s network.
Share expertise and collaborate on professional development, governance, and member engagement initiatives, and more.
Gain visibility within the broader association community in Australia and New Zealand.
Access opportunities to host international association events and delegates in New Zealand, boosting local engagement and knowledge exchange.

About AuSAE:

The home for association professionals, the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is the leading - and only not-for-profit, member-based - organisation supporting association professionals in Australia and New Zealand. For 70 years, AuSAE has been a trusted partner for those working in associations, providing professional development, support, and networking to help association leaders achieve organisational goals, advance their careers, and strengthen the wider sector.

About Tourism New Zealand Business Events:

Tourism New Zealand Business Events provides expert guidance, funding, and support to attract conferences, incentives and corporate events to New Zealand.

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For more information about AuSAE, please contact Toni Brearley, CAE:
Toni Brearley, CAE
Chief Executive Officer, AuSAE
E: toni@ausae.org.au
T: + 61 458 000 155

To apply for funding and support to host a conference in New Zealand contact Helen Bambry:
Helen Bambry
Business Events Manager, Tourism New Zealand
E: Helen.Bambry@tnz.govt.nz
T: +61 415 933 325

The Australasian Society of Association Executives

Contact us:

Email: info@ausae.org.au
Phone: 1300 764 576 (within Australia)
Phone: +61 7 3268 7955 (outside Australia)
Address: Unit 6, 26 Navigator Place, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia