Queensland Premier invests in ICT

By Greg McNevin

July 2, 2008: In a presentation to 900 representatives from the information communication technology (ICT) industry last week, Queensland’s Premier, the Hon Anna Bligh MP, confirmed the state’s commitment to the sector with a vision for the future where “knowledge, creativity and innovation drive economic growth to improve prosperity and quality of life.”

Premier Bligh outlined the Smart State Strategy 2008-12, which aims to develop a knowledge-based economy by improving eight areas in the government’s approach to ICT.

“We are about to embark on a journey which will require us to fundamentally rethink the way we approach ICT in government,” said Ms Bligh. “I want a genuine partnership with the ICT industry that helps the government be more effective and helps the industry to grow.”

The plan calls for the removal of uncertainty in ICT spending projections, it requires agencies to obtain external strategy advice on business cases and specifications, investment in ICT innovation, a reduction in the cost of doing business with government, and an increase in the Queensland Government’s overall spend on ICT.

“[The Australian Information Industry Association’s] Queensland Branch has a history of strong engagement with the state government, and it’s great to now see the government engaging with the issues at this level,” said AIIA CEO Ian Birks. “The Premier has demonstrated that not only does Queensland recognise ICT’s critical role in strong economic performance, but that the government is listening to and will work closely with the industry to achieve their aims.’

“ICT infrastructure is the primary infrastructure of the future… getting this right has the capacity to assist in the complete transformation of the way the government serves a community,” said Premier Bligh.

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