Tasmania’s Tech Vision Needs Funding Support
Tasmania’s tech industry says it is encouraged by the Tasmanian Government’s focus on Advanced Technology and Digital Inclusion announced this week – but the proof will be whether there’s funding in the May budget.
The tech sector has contributed suggestions and energy to the development of the strategies released on Friday – and is optimistic the Tasmanian Government understands that Tasmania’s future lies in innovation and upskilling all sectors to embrace new technologies.
TasICT CEO Russell Kelly said the frameworks announced were heading in the right direction but needed funding in the May Budget to come to life.
“Minister Madeleine Ogilvie understands the role of Advanced Technology for Tasmania’s future, and the need to include all Tasmanians in the prosperity that it unlocks through digital inclusion and upskilling.
“The tech sector welcomes especially the support for all businesses to assess their innovation readiness and their use of AI and cyber security – that is an initiative we have been campaigning for.
“Our members look forward to helping all sectors and businesses take the next step in their innovation journey.”
TasICT also welcomes the Digital Tasmania Strategy 2026-2031 but notes again it lacks funding.
“The Premier in the State of the State of Address this week correctly recognised that a major investment is required in technology and in particular Artificial Intelligence as part of the new ‘Building Tasmania’ focus.
“In our Budget submission, TasICT suggests that significant savings can be made through investment in new technology that drives faster and smarter delivery of Government services.
“But we have to quickly turn these plans to action. In the age of AI, standing still means obsolescence – and Tasmania cannot afford that.”
Mr Kelly said that more needed to be done on workforce transformation so that businesses were encouraged to introduce entry-level tech jobs.
“With the rise of AI, the Tasmanian Government must encourage businesses to employ ICT graduates into tech roles otherwise we face closing the door on a generation who will not get the opportunity to gain the real-life work skills we will need in the future and business will lose the opportunity to uplift their digital capability.”
You can see the Tasmanian Government’s strategies here: