The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA), the peak representative body and advocacy group for those in the digital ecosystem, has signed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) to continue the strong collaboration between the Australian Government and the ICT industry.  

The AIIA and DTA first signed a MOU in March of 2018. Previously this has been renewed annually, with the 2021 MOU to be an ongoing agreement, such is the strength of the relationship between the 2 parties. In the 3 years since the initial MOU was signed, ongoing value for both parties has been demonstrated and this has led to the agency agreeing to make the MOU an ongoing agreement. This shows the commitment of both sides to deliver world class citizen and government digital services that benefits Australia’s digital industry. 

Under the ongoing agreement, the DTA and AIIA will continue to exchange information, experiences and expertise to achieve better outcomes for people and businesses using government digital services. 

AIIA CEO, Mr Ron Gauci said: “Our ongoing relationship with the DTA has benefitted both parties. The DTA has access to the best digital technology practices in Australia through the AIIA membership and is able to use our network - including SMEs - to understand how they can best implement change through Australia’s government digital services. The signing of the ongoing MOU between both parties demonstrates the commitment the agency has to working with industry to collaborate and share knowledge. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a once in lifetime opportunity for major reform and restructure of our economy and society. Governments have the opportunity to digitise their platforms and services to best meet the needs of society. The AIIA and its members are here to work alongside the government to help facilitate this transition.” 

DTA Chief Executive Officer, Randall Brugeaud, said: “The importance of digital in enabling government service delivery really came to the fore in 2020. Australia’s ICT industry strongly supported the government’s COVID-19 response and is continuing to provide support as we move into the recovery phase.”  

“We look forward to working with industry, including through the AIIA, to deliver essential services to all Australians.”  

The AIIA and DTA will continue to lead discussion and introduction of ICT technology and best practices between government and industry. The 2 parties will continue to seek ways to increase skills in Australia’s ICT industry and to champion women in technology.  

The AIIA looks forward to continuing to build on its long-term partnership with the DTA to provide advice and opportunity for continued improvements in government service delivery. 

The AIIA is a not-for-profit organisation aimed at fuelling Australia’s future social and economic prosperity through technology innovation.