Which state leads ICT in Australia?

When it comes to information and communications technology (ICT) among Australian states, competition is fierce.

Earlier this month, the NSW Government sought to lay claim to being Australia’s leading ICT state with the launch of a new ICT Governance framework. But it faces stiff competition from rival technology states Queensland and Victoria.

Now, the Victorian government is encouraging school and university graduates to consider a career in ICT as part of ICT careers week, further building on its self-appointed status at the IT hub of Australia.

Member for Prahran, Clem Newton-Brown, said the sector provided the potential for “dynamic career choices”, talking up Melbourne as “Australia’s ICT capital”.

“Right now is the best time to be considering a career in ICT in Victoria, and this event will introduce students to the endless possibilities of a career in ICT,” Newton-Brown said.

The ICT sector in Victoria generates annual revenue of $29 billion and exports of over $2.45 billion, according to the government. More than 145,000 people are employed in ICT jobs across all industries.

“The Victorian Government is working closely with industry as well as the universities and TAFEs to ensure the next generation of ICT graduates are job-ready and most importantly have the skills sets required by business,” Newton-Brown said.

“We will ensure Victoria has a strong ICT workforce and a reliable supply of skilled workers into the future.”

As part of ICT careers week, the Victorian government is running a free ICT careers expo to offer potential employees the opportunity to meet ICT professionals and learn about paths and training.

Meanwhile, Queensland recently announced it would restructure the Queensland Government Chief Information Office (QGCIO) and launched its Toward Q2 though ICT five-year strategy. And, Premier Anna Bligh has announced the state will appoint a state government CIO as a ‘technology tsar’ to shake up ICT policy development.

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