The NSW Government has announced plans to establish a whole-of-government data analytics centre.  Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Victor Dominello said it would be the first of its kind in Australia.

“Data is one of the greatest assets held by government, but when it’s buried away in bureaucracy it is of little value,” Mr Dominello said.

“Whether it’s tackling crime, combatting obesity or addressing housing affordability, we cannot hope to develop solutions to the long-term challenges that our state faces without an effective whole-of-government data sharing platform.

“Data analytics has been used successfully in jurisdictions like New Zealand, New York City and the State of Michigan to improve the lives of citizens through better targeted and more coordinated government service delivery.”

Chair of the Australian Information Industry Association Kee Wong commended the NSW Government.

“As we mature into a knowledge based economy, the role of data and the ability to link data from multiple sources, supported by appropriate privacy and security, will drive more effective and innovative government as well as contribute to the competitiveness of the NSW economy,” Mr Wong said.

A specialist government steering committee is advising on the establishment of the centre and an industry advisory body will assist in guiding its ongoing work.

The steering committee includes NSW Privacy Commissioner Dr Elizabeth Coombs, NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Mary O’Kane, NSW Customer Service Commissioner Mike Pratt and NSW Information Commissioner Liz Tydd.