Tasmania’s technology sector is aiming for industry growth and more jobs under new leadership with the appointment of a new TasICT General Manager.
Russell Kelly, formally NBN Co’s Tasmanian Corporate Affairs Manager for the past nine years, will take up the role from this week.
Mr Kelly is a Tasmanian and has served in several corporate and government communications and stakeholder engagement roles since starting his career as a journalist at The Mercury newspaper in 1984. Most recently he was National Business Stakeholder Manager for NBN Co.
TasICT represents the State’s $1.7 billion tech sector and is the peak body for tech businesses, covering more than 9,500 employees, according to the 2022 Tasmanian Government ICT Sector Scan.
Mr Kelly said that he was thrilled to be taking TasICT on its next phase of growth.
“Technology is part of the lives of every single Tasmanian. Rapid developments like Artificial Intelligence and the constant vigilance needed in cybersecurity mean the ICT industry more than ever is critical to the social and economic future of our State.
“TasICT is the voice of the industry and is here to help governments, business and community groups understand technology, use it responsibly, and realise its benefits.”
TasICT is now in its 26th year and continues to advocate for governments to provide additional support to STEM subjects, utilise local tech businesses in government projects and adopt a prudent risk-based and education approach to manage tech threats and scams.
“The pace of technological change threatens to leave a large number of people on the wrong side of the digital divide – and government, business and industry groups can work together to improve digital inclusion, support education and training for young Tasmanians, and empower Tasmanians through technology.
“An early priority is to help the Tasmanian Government develop a strong, unified approach on science and technology – we believe firmly this requires a dedicated science and technology Minister.”
TasICT is gearing up for its next signature event the 2024 TasICT Excellence Awards on 28 June at Blundstone Arena – a further showcase of the brilliant tech businesses working right now in the State.