ACS & DTA partner to enhance digital skills in public sector

The Australian Computer Society (ACS) and the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an aim to enhance digital skills within the Australian public sector.

The MoU was signed in Canberra and represents a collaborative effort by ACS and DTA to leverage their combined expertise. This partnership focuses on providing tailored training, resources, and support to public sector employees, equipping them to face the challenges presented by a swiftly altering digital landscape.

ACS serves as a professional association for the technology sector in Australia, representing over 49,500 members spanning industry, government, and education. The organisation is committed to fostering the nation's digital skills capabilities and supporting ICT professionals throughout their careers.

The DTA is tasked with spearheading the digital transformation of government services in Australia. Its role is crucial in enhancing the accessibility, reliability, and security of the digital services provided by the government.

The MoU strives to develop a digitally capable Australian Public Service (APS) that aligns with the digital industry. The focus is on enabling APS technology professionals to embrace emerging technologies, enhancing their career trajectories, and promoting excellence across both the APS and its allied industries.

Josh Griggs, ACS Chief Executive Officer, remarked, "The MoU will see ACS and the DTA working together to apply the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) as an industry-wide approach to digital skills classification and evaluations."

He further stated, "This MoU represents a significant step forward in our mission to build a highly skilled digital workforce in Australia. By partnering with the DTA, we can ensure the public sector has access to the best training and resources available, enabling agencies to deliver high-quality digital services to the Australian public."

Griggs added, "ACS will be applying what we've learned from our overseas counterparts and our relationships with international technology organisations in ensuring this agreement becomes a catalyst for innovative creation and adoption of technology across the public sector in ways that benefit business, government, and Australian society."

The memorandum outlines several key objectives: maximising efficient and effective use of capabilities in delivering digital services, acting as a catalyst for technological innovation, promoting SFIA for digital skills classification, building leading capabilities and skills within the Australian digital workforce, and exploring diversity and inclusion initiatives for tech talent.

Chris Fechner, Chief Executive Officer of DTA, explained, "This memorandum is built on principles of collaboration, communication, and mutual benefit."

Fechner continued, "This arrangement seeks to strengthen cooperative and constructive exchanges of experiences and expertise to deliver better outcomes for Australians through digital government services."

ACS has consistently supported the development of digital skills in Australia through various initiatives, including professional development programs, certifications, and partnerships with educational institutions. This commitment ensures that Australia has the talent required for future technological advancements.

The signing of this MoU marks the start of a strategic collaboration aimed at boosting the digital proficiency within Australia's public sector. ACS and DTA will work jointly towards building a digitally capable and forward-thinking public service.