Every one of Australia’s 200 Commonwealth Government agencies will have a dedicated information specialist on staff by the year 2020, according to a timetable laid out by David Fricker, Director-General of the National Archives.

At the launch of a digital information ‘capability matrix’ developed by the NAA to set  out the relevant skills and knowledge required by public servants at all levels, Fricker said “I think this is an achievable time frame”

While not exactly sure what the new staff would be called, Fricker considered that the term Chief Information Governance Officer may be appropriate.

“Every Agency needs someone who can give rock solid advice to the CEO on information governance,” said Fricker

“This must be underpinned by recommended qualifications for lower positions … and all job advertisements must reflect the necessary qualifications.”

Fricker also announced that the NAA is working over the next 12 months to provide certification courses for Australian Commonwealth public servants in information management in partnership with existing tertiary institutions.

 ‘The days have long gone when a handful of people had total responsibility for managing records and information,’ said Fricker.

‘Today, every public servant, from new recruits to agency heads, needs to recognise the value of the government information they are creating and handling.

‘Rapid advances in technology, the growing volume of information, and the increasing complexity of the online environment all mean that Australian government agencies face significant challenges in managing their business information.

‘The National Archives is responsible for advising all government agencies on how to manage their information for business efficiency and effectiveness, and also to ensure transparency and accountability.’

Ian Fitzgerald, the Chief Human Capital Officer of the Australian Public Service Commission, said the launch of digital information ‘capability matrix’ by the NAA reinforced the importance and value of professional information management skills and knowledge for everyone working in the public sector.

“There is a system-wide need to improve IM capabilities in the Australian Public Service,” he said.

The NAA’s digital information and records management capability matrix is available HERE