Carr drives home IT message

THE newly formed IT Industry Innovation Council has been told its advice to the Federal Government will be crucial to developing Australian projects.

Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, says the future of Australian innovation cannot be considered without acknowledging the part played by Australia’s $98 billion IT industry.

“IT will be the principal means to deliver the economic and productivity growth needed to drive innovation across the entire economy,” says Carr.

“IT is critical to Australia’s directly employing more than 400,000 Australians. Council members have been drawn from across the IT spectrum and include representatives of industry, suppliers, users, education, research, government and unions.

“The breadth and depth of experience on offer in the council will ensure that it delivers on its objective to champion innovation through the use of IT.”

Council chair and managing director of Data#3, John Grant, says a strategic agenda will be developed.

“The council will have a wide agenda to consider innovation within the IT industry itself plus the application of technology to create innovation across the broader economy,” he says.

“It will apply the Government’s published innovation framework as it works
closely with all stakeholders to execute this agenda.

“The IT sector has its own well-earned reputation for having an innovative and entrepreneurial culture. Harnessing that talent for the greater benefit of Australian industry will be one of the council’s greatest opportunities.”