Matthew Miller, Author at Techbest - Top Tech Reviews In Australia - Page 33 of 34

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Nothing Ear 2024 Review


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Queensland Implements Obligatory Risk Assessments for AI and Automated Decision-Making


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Queensland Requires Risk Assessments for AI and Automated Decision-Making Systems

Queensland Requires Risk Assessments for AI and Automated Decision-Making Systems

Mandatory AI and automated decision risk reviews to land in Queensland

Quick Read

  • Queensland will require risk assessments for AI and automated decision-making (ADM) in public sector initiatives.
  • Evaluations conducted internally and examinations by external parties will be necessary.
  • The AI governance policy and its accompanying AI risk assessment framework are in the final stages of development.
  • Possible implementation of the ISO42001 AI Management System Standard.
  • Current frameworks, such as the ICT Investment Review, will be incorporated into the new policy.
  • QGCDG currently assists departments with the planning and implementation of AI projects.
  • Examples of AI initiatives include employing drones in farming and the QChat conversational agent.

Implementation of Compulsory Risk Assessments

The Queensland government plans to implement compulsory internal assessments and external evaluations for public sector projects that utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision-making (ADM). The objective of this initiative is to identify and manage the unique risks linked to these technologies.

Formation of AI Regulation Strategy

As stated by Chris McLaren, who holds the position of Queensland’s Chief Customer and Digital Officer, the Queensland Government Customer and Digital Group (QGCDG) is nearing completion of an AI governance policy. This policy is accompanied by an AI risk assessment framework that aims to direct the implementation of AI within multiple government sectors.

Adopting Industry Standards

The QGCDG is also considering the implementation of the ISO42001 AI Management System Standard along with other relevant industry standards. This would facilitate the identification and management of AI risks throughout their lifecycle within the Queensland government.

National Framework Agreement

All the ministers responsible for data and digital matters from the federal and state territories recently concurred on a national framework that advises, but does not require, assurance scoring and controls for government projects. This framework highlights the importance of internal evaluations and external reviews, dependent on financial and risk criteria.

Existing Implementations in Additional States

New South Wales (NSW) and Western Australia (WA) are presently the sole states that have implemented these types of systems. NSW’s system pertains exclusively to projects incorporating AI, while WA’s encompasses both AI and ADM projects.

Range of the New Framework

Although QGCDG’s framework is currently in its finalization stage, it is set to encompass both AI and ADM in extensive projects. This new policy will be incorporated into existing mandatory systems like the ICT Investment Review and the portfolio, program, and project assurance framework.

Continuous Assistance for AI Initiatives

Even though new frameworks have been introduced, QGCDG has been assisting departments in the planning and implementation of AI projects. The existing assurance process considers risk factors associated with AI and ADM. When needed, risks are addressed with the Digital Economy Leaders Sub-Group, responsible for overseeing digital investments.

Examples of Ongoing AI Initiatives

One significant initiative features the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries utilizing drones with classification algorithms to detect weeds in sugarcane fields. Another instance is QChat, a supportive chatbot implemented in multiple departments to enhance customer facilitation, regulatory technology, productivity, and cybersecurity.

Future Assurance Measures

All artificial intelligence initiatives under the Queensland government are presently documented with the QGCDG. They use an assurance profiling instrument to decide if just an internal evaluation is sufficient or if an extra external review is needed. The upcoming policy will establish the assurance check requirements for forthcoming projects.

Summary

The Queensland government is on the verge of introducing compulsory risk assessments for AI and ADM in public sector initiatives. The goal of this measure is to guarantee that risks are properly assessed and managed. Supported continuously by QGCDG, various departments have started incorporating AI into diverse applications, such as agriculture and customer service. The upcoming policy will offer an organized framework for future technology implementations, aligning with national standards and improving oversight.

What is the primary goal of Queensland’s newly implemented policy regarding AI and ADM?

The primary goal is to assess and reduce risks linked to AI and ADM in public sector initiatives by requiring both internal evaluations and external audits.

What criteria could Queensland establish for governing AI-related risks?

Queensland is considering implementing the ISO42001 AI Management System Standard in addition to other pertinent industry standards.

Which states have already adopted comparable systems?

New South Wales (NSW) and Western Australia (WA) have implemented comparable systems. NSW concentrates exclusively on AI initiatives, whereas WA encompasses both AI and ADM initiatives.

How will the new policy be incorporated into the current frameworks?

The new AI risk assessment framework is set to be integrated into current mandatory systems such as the ICT Investment Review and the portfolio, program, and project assurance framework.

Could you give some examples of ongoing AI projects in Queensland?

Illustrations encompass the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries utilizing drones to identify weeds in sugarcane plantations and the QChat chatbot employed across multiple customer service scenarios.

What current support does QGCDG offer for AI projects?

QGCDG assists departments by providing expert consultants in data and artificial intelligence to assess and minimize risks during the planning and implementation of AI projects.

What will the upcoming policy outline concerning assurance checks moving forward?

The upcoming policy will detail the degree of assurance checks required for governmental AI and ADM initiatives moving forward.

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Denon PerL Pro True Wireless Earbuds Review


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Services Australia’s expenditure on VMware licensing and support has surged to $94 million.


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Quick Read

  • Services Australia extends VMware licensing and support contracts for approximately $94 million spanning a three-year period.
  • The updated agreement shows a 20% rise in expenses relative to earlier contracts.
  • Broadcom’s purchase of VMware has resulted in higher licensing costs.
  • Services Australia is conducting a comprehensive architecture assessment to enhance its systems.

The Expenses for VMware Licensing and Support for Services Australia Increase Substantially

Services Australia's VMware licensing and support renewal amount rises to $94 million

Services Australia has revealed the extension of its long-term licensing and support contracts with VMware, resulting in a significant outlay of nearly $94 million for the upcoming three years. This latest agreement marks a 20% rise in costs relative to the former contracts, which collectively amounted to $78 million.

The New Agreement

The new agreement that was recently signed takes the place of two individual three-year contracts that Services Australia previously held with VMware for the licensing period from 2021 to 2024, as well as for maintenance and support. Services Australia stated that this contract guarantees the ongoing provision of essential software, support, and associated services for the agency’s key service delivery programs, such as Centrelink and Medicare. Additionally, it merges several expiring contracts into a more efficient arrangement.

Effects of Broadcom’s Purchase

The notable rise in VMware licensing expenses is linked to Broadcom’s purchase of VMware, a transaction worth US$61 billion (AUD$86 billion) in 2022. This acquisition has apparently caused a surge in license renewal fees for VMware, mainly because customers are being transitioned to a new per-core subscription model. VMware has recognized “pricing challenges” for some of their long-standing customers, further increasing the financial strain on organizations like Services Australia.

A Long-standing Relationship

Since at least 2009, Services Australia, formerly the Department of Human Services, has upheld a software licensing enterprise agreement with VMware. Over time, several licensing agreements have been established under this ongoing arrangement, with the latest one amounting to an impressive $44 million, covering both hardware and software solutions.

Upcoming Initiatives: Comprehensive Evaluation of System Architecture

Considering these financial factors, Services Australia is planning to initiate a comprehensive end-to-end architecture review this year. Chief Information and Digital Officer Charles McHardie stated that the review would concentrate on assessing each significant system within the agency. The aim is to gain a clearer understanding of which systems are new and which have become outdated over the years, thereby guiding future investments and technology enhancements.

Summary

Services Australia is poised to invest nearly $94 million to renew their VMware licensing and support agreements over the next three years, representing a substantial 20% increase compared to past contracts. This cost escalation is primarily driven by Broadcom’s purchase of VMware and the resulting increase in licence fees. To meet future requirements and refine their system architecture, Services Australia intends to conduct a comprehensive review of its major systems.

Why has the price of VMware licensing and support gone up for Services Australia?

A:

The cost has risen as a result of Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware, which has introduced higher license fees under a new per-core subscription model.

What is the monetary worth of the new contract between Services Australia and VMware?

A:

The new contract is worth nearly $94 million over three years.

Which programs will gain advantages from this updated agreement?

A:

The updated agreement will facilitate key service delivery initiatives like Centrelink and Medicare.

Q: For how many years has Services Australia maintained a licensing contract with VMware?

A:

Since at least 2009, Services Australia has maintained a licensing agreement with VMware.

Q: What is the objective of Services Australia’s comprehensive architecture assessment?

A:

The purpose of the review is to assess each key system within the organization to identify potential future investments and technology enhancements.

What was the aggregate value of the prior contracts for VMware licenses and support?

A:

The earlier agreements had a total value of $78 million.

Who is Charles McHardie?

A:

Charles McHardie holds the position of Chief Information and Digital Officer at Services Australia.

To read more articles similar to this one, go to [TechBest](https://techbest.com.au).

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ANU Aims to Develop Quantum Computer with Ambitious Initiative


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Quick Read

  • Australian National University (ANU) plans to establish an on-campus quantum computer.
  • Fujitsu Australia will partner with ANU to accomplish this objective.
  • Researchers from ANU will gain access to quantum systems and simulators in Japan.
  • Fujitsu and RIKEN are working on a quantum machine with 256 qubits, aiming to finish by March 2025.
  • There are plans underway for a future machine with 1000 qubits.
  • The project emphasizes progressing research in cryptography, materials science, and quantum simulations.
  • The partnership seeks to improve higher education and cultivate quantum computing expertise in Australia.

ANU’s Quest for Quantum: Progressing Towards Tomorrow

The Australian National University (ANU) has made a notable advance in the technology sector by announcing its intention to build an onsite quantum computer. To achieve this ambitious objective, ANU has joined forces with Fujitsu Australia. This collaboration is anticipated to enhance Australia’s position in the international quantum computing field.

ANU lays out ambition to have a quantum computer

Strategic Partnership with Fujitsu Australia

In pursuit of its quantum computing goals, ANU has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Fujitsu Australia. This strategic partnership is intended not only to build an onsite quantum computer but also to give ANU researchers and academics access to advanced quantum systems and simulators in Japan. These resources will play a crucial role in bridging the interim period until the onsite quantum computer becomes functional.

Quantum Devices and Emulators

Fujitsu is collaborating with RIKEN, Japan’s national scientific research institute, to create a 256-qubit quantum machine, which is projected to be completed by March 2025. The collaboration also aims to develop a more advanced machine with up to 1000 qubits shortly thereafter. These advancements represent important progress in quantum computing.

Building Local Expertise

ANU has articulated its aspiration to possess an onsite quantum computer in the long term. This initiative is intended to cultivate local expertise and advance research in domains such as cryptography, materials science, and quantum simulations. The partnership with Fujitsu is anticipated to act as a driving force, nurturing a skilled workforce of quantum computing experts in Australia.

Nurturing Quantum Computing Talent

Lachlan Blackhall, a professor at ANU and the deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, remarked, “Our partnership with Fujitsu enhances and supports the ANU mission to advance higher education in emerging technologies such as quantum computing. This initiative will contribute to developing a skilled workforce of quantum computing experts in Australia.”

The collaboration will leverage ANU’s expertise in quantum optical physics and quantum algorithms, offering the potential for significant progress in these fields.

Summary

The Australian National University (ANU) is committed to creating an on-site quantum computer, partnering with Fujitsu Australia to achieve this objective. ANU researchers will have access to state-of-the-art quantum systems and simulators in Japan as they pursue their target. This effort aims to enhance Australia’s knowledge in cryptography, material science, and quantum simulations, while also nurturing the upcoming generation of quantum computing experts.

What is the primary objective of ANU in the field of quantum computing?

A:

The Australian National University (ANU) intends to establish an onsite quantum computer to promote research across multiple disciplines and develop local proficiency.

Who is collaborating with ANU for this project?

A:

ANU has collaborated with Fujitsu Australia to create the onsite quantum computer and offer temporary access to advanced quantum systems and simulators located in Japan.

Q: What are the main initiatives that Fujitsu is collaborating on with RIKEN?

A:

Fujitsu and RIKEN are working on creating a 256-qubit quantum computer, with plans to have it completed by March 2025, and subsequently aim to develop a more sophisticated machine with up to 1000 qubits.

Q: In what ways will this initiative be advantageous for Australia?

A:

This effort will strengthen Australia’s expertise in areas such as cryptography, material science, and quantum simulations. Additionally, it will assist in developing a proficient workforce in quantum computing.

Q: What scholastic advantages does ANU anticipate from this partnership?

A:

ANU anticipates that the partnership will advance higher education in cutting-edge technologies, with a focus on quantum computing, and enhance its initiatives in quantum optical physics and quantum algorithms.

When is ANU planning to establish its own quantum computer on site?

A:

Although ANU has announced plans to establish an onsite quantum computer, they have not disclosed a definite timeline for this initiative.

What function will the onsite quantum computer serve when it becomes operational?

A:

The quantum computer located on-site will facilitate advanced research in areas like cryptography, material science, and quantum simulations, aiding in the development of local expertise and promoting innovation.