Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Sony WF-C510 Truly Wireless Earbuds – Small, Light, Bluetooth in Ear Headphones with Multipoint Connection, Ambient Sound, IPX4 Rating, Spotify Tap, Quick Charge, 22 HR Battery, iOS & Android – Black
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Jabra Elite 3 in Ear Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds – Noise Isolating True Wireless Buds with 4 Built-in Microphones for Clear Calls, Rich Bass, Customizable Sound, and Mono Mode – Lilac
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This weekend, electric vehicle (EV) aficionados and motorsport lovers have something special in store as Victoria’s historic Rob Roy Hillclimb prepares for a unique EV event. The Rob Roy All Electric Hillclimb & EV Carshow is scheduled for Sunday, 27th October 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm at 375 Clintons Road, Smiths Gully, VIC. This thrilling event will showcase electric vehicles from prominent manufacturers such as Tesla, MG, BYD, KIA, Polestar, along with custom EV conversions, all vying for position in an exhilarating hillclimb atmosphere.
Rob Roy Hillclimb is a motorsport venue located in Smiths Gully, Victoria, roughly 49 kilometers from Melbourne’s central business district. This location holds substantial historical significance in the Australian motorsport landscape, having been constructed in the 1930s by local pioneers. Some of Australia’s most iconic drivers, including triple F1 champion Jack Brabham, Norm Beechey, and Bob Jane, have raced at Rob Roy.
Following a devastating bushfire in the 1960s, the track was left abandoned. However, revival efforts by the MG Car Club Victoria in the 1990s took place after the closure of another local hillclimb venue, Templestowe. Over the years, the track has benefited from numerous upgrades, most recently in 2022, when government funding facilitated the resurfacing of the track and enhancements to spectator facilities.
This EV-exclusive hillclimb event marks a significant advancement for electric motorsport in Australia. While other nations have already embraced EVs across various motorsport formats, Australia has been slower to follow suit, mainly due to its smaller population and fewer EVs in circulation.
Nevertheless, with a rise in popularity of high-performance electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 Performance and the MG4 X-Power, this event presents an excellent chance for EV owners to explore the full potential of their vehicles in a safe, regulated setting. The Rob Roy track’s relatively short distance (about 0.7 km) makes it a perfect location for an EV event, allowing for competitive runs without interruptions from slower traffic.
The event is set to deliver spirited competition, with classes structured based on vehicle specifications such as weight, power, and motor type. This arrangement ensures that all competitors are up against similarly configured vehicles, creating a level playing field. Once all vehicle entries are finalized, the organizers will determine specific classes to foster a fair and competitive environment.
Participation fees are A$150, applicable for both timed and non-timed events. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can sign up for the “Come and Try” category, where your run will not be timed. However, for those seeking a competitive edge, the timed event offers official results.
While the Rob Roy Hillclimb website currently lists nearby petrol stations, it’s vital to emphasize that charging infrastructure is essential for EV participants. Here are some nearby charging alternatives to consider if you plan to enter the event:
The Rob Roy All Electric Hillclimb & EV Carshow represents a distinctive opportunity to observe or take part in one of Australia’s inaugural dedicated EV hillclimb events. Featuring a combination of high-performance electric vehicles, a historic racing venue, and a commitment to sustainability, this occasion signifies an important milestone for electric motorsport in Australia. Whether you are a competitor or a spectator, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
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Notwithstanding persistent security concerns linked to iPhones, the Russian government has markedly increased its acquisitions of Apple devices in 2023. As reported by *Vedomosti*, the number of iPhones purchased by the Russian government from January to September 2023 was fourfold that of the same period in the previous year.
This rise in acquisitions occurs despite official alerts and prohibitions regarding iPhone use among certain government officials. For example, the FSB raised concerns in June 2023 regarding a supposed American espionage initiative that allegedly compromised numerous iPhones through advanced surveillance software. Apple has denied these allegations, but apprehensions remain.
The Russian government has implemented significant measures to restrict iPhone usage among its officials, particularly for those engaged in sensitive responsibilities like preparations for the upcoming 2024 presidential election. The *Kommersant* newspaper previously indicated that the Kremlin advised officials to steer clear of iPhones due to concerns regarding potential surveillance from Western intelligence agencies.
To further corroborate these concerns, Russia’s digital ministry has prohibited its personnel from utilizing iPhones and iPads for work-related interactions, including emails and official applications. Yet, despite these impediments, the interest in iPhones among government entities appears unaffected.
Remarkably, the demand for iPhones in Russia continues unhindered even after Apple suspended official exports to the nation due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Russian consumers, encompassing government agencies, can still acquire Apple products via grey or parallel imports. This practice, legalized in Russia to circumvent traditional trade barriers, permits companies to import goods without the brand owner’s approval.
This mechanism has allowed the availability of iPhones, including the latest iPhone 16, in the Russian market, albeit at inflated prices. The total contracts involving iPhones in Russia during the first three quarters of this year reached 6.9 million roubles (approximately AUD 112,000), rising from 1.6 million roubles (around AUD 26,000) during the same period in 2022.
Apple has categorically dismissed any links to the alleged espionage activities cited by Russia’s FSB. The company asserts that its devices remain secure and that it has not collaborated with any government for purposes of compromising privacy. Nonetheless, the persistent worries among Russian officials indicate that fears of espionage continue to be a pressing concern.
Regardless of these issues, Russia persists in adopting Apple’s technology, with consumer interest remaining strong. This contradiction underscores the intricate relationship between technology, security, and politics in today’s international scenario.
In conclusion, even with ongoing security issues and prohibitions against using iPhones for official duties, the Russian government has significantly raised its acquisitions of iPhones in 2023. This increase coincides with allegations of espionage involving iPhones by the United States, a claim strongly denied by Apple. Meanwhile, the high demand for the newest iPhone models continues in Russia, supported by grey market imports, even as Apple ceases official exports to the nation amid geopolitical tensions.
The rise in iPhone purchases likely stems from ongoing demand within government sectors and a scarcity of viable alternatives offering comparable functionality and user experience. Despite security issues, the popularity of iPhones can be attributed to their advanced features and dependability.
Parallel imports refer to products imported into a country without the brand owner’s consent, thus bypassing official channels. Russia has legalized this practice to ensure continued access to foreign goods like iPhones after Apple suspended direct exports. Consequently, Russian consumers can still acquire new Apple devices, although often at elevated prices.
Yes, Apple has firmly denied any involvement in espionage activities. The company maintains that its devices are secure and asserts it has not collaborated with any government to compromise user privacy. Nevertheless, the Russian government remains cautious regarding the use of Apple products for sensitive tasks.
The prohibition mainly affects the use of iPhones and iPads for official communications and work tasks. Government officials are barred from utilizing these devices for work-related emails and applications, but the ban does not necessarily encompass personal use, which might clarify the continued growth in iPhone acquisitions.
The primary concern is the vulnerability of iPhones to espionage by foreign intelligence agencies, particularly those from Western nations. The Russian government worries that advanced surveillance software could be exploited to access sensitive information stored on these devices.
iPhones are celebrated for their intuitive interface, advanced functionalities, and reliability. Many users, including government officials, may struggle to transition to alternative devices lacking similar performance. Additionally, the status associated with Apple products likely plays a role in their ongoing allure.
The conflict prompted Apple to cease official exports to Russia, yet consumers have found ways to procure iPhones. Grey market imports have filled this void, allowing Russians to continue buying new iPhones, albeit typically at significantly higher prices as a result of the unofficial channels.
This article offers an in-depth analysis of the situation, formatted for the Australian audience and optimised for search engines. It features a “Quick Read” segment for easy takeaways, a detailed discussion of the issue, and a Q&A section that tackles common inquiries from readers.
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Jabra Elite 4 Active in-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds – True Wireless Ear Buds with Secure Active Fit, 4 Built-in Microphones, Active Noise Cancellation and Adjustable HearThrough Technology – Mint
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Endeavour Energy, a prominent utility provider in Australia, has launched an extensive revamp of its procurement operations under the banner “Zodiac”. This shift is intended to enhance visibility and efficiency across the company’s spending at all levels. The core element of this advancement is the implementation of SAP Ariba, a cloud-based procurement solution that will support contract management, sourcing, and supplier lifecycle management.
Endeavour Energy aims to modernise its procurement operations. The Zodiac initiative, spearheaded by procurement and supply chain manager Nicole Croak, seeks to refine contract management, sourcing, and supplier lifecycle management through SAP Ariba. Croak emphasized this crucial transition during the recent SAP NOW conference, highlighting how the utility company’s revamped procurement strategy is vital for ongoing growth and operational efficiency.
The primary service region for Endeavour Energy encompasses Western Sydney, which is witnessing rapid growth due to significant infrastructure ventures, such as the new Western Sydney International Airport. To accommodate this expansion, the company must effectively manage the supply of essential infrastructure components, such as poles and wires.
The swift growth of Western Sydney is a focal concern for Endeavour Energy’s future planning. Croak detailed how the utility has already seen considerable efficiency improvements in demand planning over the past three years, although further progress is still needed. Currently, the company relies on data from its works management systems to back major projects, but the new Zodiac initiative will enhance these methods further within SAP’s framework.
“We need to understand what we’re purchasing, when it’s required, and from whom we’re sourcing it,” Croak stated, stressing the significance of refining procurement procedures to address the needs of its rapidly expanding service territories, including regions of southern Sydney and the south coast.
Endeavour Energy has already made substantial progress in digital transformation by deploying SAP S/4HANA between 2018 and 2021. This enterprise resource planning (ERP) system consolidates asset management, works management, finance, HR, payroll, procurement, warehousing, and distribution. The introduction of SAP Ariba will work to complement this by further simplifying procurement.
In addition, the company has embraced SAP’s Business Technology Platform (BTP), which provides data and analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), application development, automation, and integration capabilities. These technologies aim to establish a more unified system that connects Endeavour Energy’s diverse business functions.
Endeavour Energy is also delving into the potential of AI to boost procurement efficiency. Croak mentioned that the firm recently conducted an internal workshop focused on AI applications in procurement and spend management. The workshop generated several promising use cases that could revolutionize procurement decision-making.
One noteworthy advancement is the development of Endeavour Energy’s own internal AI chatbot, inspired by ChatGPT. This tool has been trained on company policies, procedures, and operational guidelines to assist both office and field employees with their inquiries. Croak is optimistic about the future potential of AI in procurement, envisioning a system capable of performing preliminary risk assessments and assessing supplier performance.
Endeavour Energy is embracing a digital transformation in procurement through the Zodiac initiative, aiming to modernise the management of spending, suppliers, and contracts. By leveraging SAP Ariba and the SAP Business Technology Platform, the utility plans to enhance its demand planning and procurement processes, particularly in rapidly growing areas like Western Sydney. The company’s investigation into AI, including an in-house chatbot, holds potential to further improve procurement efficiency and decision-making.
Alt Image Tag: Endeavour Energy to deploy SAP Ariba, kicks off procurement transformation
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Beyond Bank has markedly improved its call centre functions and digital reach, achieving a 92% boost in customer satisfaction. By embracing cutting-edge cloud solutions and artificial intelligence (AI), the bank has optimized workflows, shortened call durations, and enhanced the overall experience for customers.
To upgrade operations and accommodate growing customer demands, Beyond Bank migrated from its outdated on-premise call centre system to the Genesys Cloud platform. As noted by Brent Alexander, the national manager of the bank’s call centre, the earlier system was not in sync with the institution’s customer-focused objectives. Transitioning to the cloud has not only boosted functionality but also led to considerable cost savings.
The Genesys Cloud platform facilitates regular feature updates, which played a crucial role in Beyond Bank’s selection process. The capacity to introduce new features effortlessly with a simple button click, while avoiding extensive hardware or resource enhancements, rendered it a financially feasible alternative for the bank. Beyond Bank has been utilizing Genesys Cloud for six years and has recently renewed its contract until 2029.
A further key enhancement arose from the integration of the Genesys Cloud platform with Beyond Bank’s Dynamics CRM. This synchronization permits customers to partially finish the verification process using their phone passcode prior to engaging with an agent, leading to a reduction in handling time of around 40 seconds.
The rollout of a callback option has also enriched the customer experience. This function alerts customers regarding estimated wait durations and provides an automatic callback to maintain their position in the queue. Alexander remarked that customer comments concerning wait times “practically vanished overnight” following the implementation of this feature.
Beyond Bank has also adopted AI, especially in the form of chatbots and predictive call routing, to further enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. The predictive routing technology evaluates available agents to identify the most suitable person for each call, leading to an average reduction in handling time of 13%.
The bank’s AI-enabled chatbot, designed in partnership with QPC Australia, has resulted in a 50% rise in the volume of customer inquiries managed through chat. Originally programmed to identify 17 distinct customer intents, the chatbot is operational 24/7, allowing customers to receive assistance anytime. The bank is dedicated to ensuring that the chatbot maintains the high-quality service standard set by its human agents.
At present, the chatbot primarily addresses general inquiries, but Beyond Bank intends to broaden its capabilities to facilitate secure, self-service transactions. By developing the necessary integration layers, the bank seeks to enable customers to execute transactions via the web chat channel anytime, from the comfort of their homes.
Beyond Bank’s shift to a cloud-based call centre framework and the implementation of AI-driven solutions have resulted in remarkable upgrades in customer satisfaction, call processing durations, and operational productivity. The integration of callback features, predictive routing, and a round-the-clock chatbot has empowered the bank to better serve its customers, while forthcoming enhancements promise to introduce even more self-service conveniences.
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An individual from Alabama, Eric Council Jr., has been apprehended by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for executing a plan that involved breaching the official X (formerly Twitter) account of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The hacking incident occurred earlier this year and reportedly sought to influence Bitcoin pricing by disseminating false information. The 25-year-old has been charged by US prosecutors with conspiracy related to aggravated identity theft and access device fraud.
This arrest has triggered renewed worries about the security of X, particularly following its acquisition by Elon Musk in October 2022. Below, we summarize the critical elements of the case and its broader effects on cryptocurrency markets and cybersecurity on social media platforms.
In January, the breach resulted in a fake announcement being made on the SEC’s official X account, misleadingly claiming the agency had approved Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This inaccurate information led to a brief surge of $1000 AUD ($1493 USD) in Bitcoin prices. The post was swiftly taken down, and the SEC formally rejected the information.
According to the US Attorney’s office for the District of Columbia, Council was allegedly involved in a SIM swapping breach, a method that enables hackers to seize control of a target’s mobile phone by transferring the SIM card to a different phone. The hackers identified a target, known as “C.L.,” who had access to the SEC’s X account. Council was guided by his accomplices on executing the SIM swap, ultimately enabling them to take over the account and disseminate false information.
The fraudulent announcement on the SEC’s X account had a direct effect on Bitcoin’s price. As previously mentioned, the cryptocurrency experienced a significant $1000 USD ($1493 AUD) increase shortly after the fake ETF approval news was publicized. Although the spike was fleeting, it underscored the volatility of cryptocurrency markets and their vulnerability to misinformation.
Notably, the day following the breach, the SEC officially approved Bitcoin ETFs, further integrating the cryptocurrency into mainstream investment portfolios. While these ETFs are viewed as beneficial for the legitimacy of Bitcoin, the breach highlighted the inherent risks associated with digital currencies and the platforms that share market-related information.
This incident has led to increased scrutiny over the security of X, especially in light of its acquisition by billionaire Elon Musk in late 2022. Under Musk’s stewardship, X has seen major transformations, including layoffs impacting its moderation and security teams, raising questions about whether the platform is sufficiently secure.
The breach of the SEC’s X account is not an isolated case; numerous prominent accounts, including those of celebrities and corporations, have experienced compromises in the past. This recent breach exemplifies the continuous security obstacles that platforms like X encounter, particularly in safeguarding sensitive accounts belonging to governmental bodies and financial regulators.
After the breach, Council received payments in Bitcoin for his involvement in the SIM swap. Prosecutors allege that he later journeyed to Birmingham, Alabama, to return the iPhone used during the hack. Additionally, Council reportedly made online searches for terms such as “what are indicators that the FBI is pursuing you” and sought guidance on deleting accounts from encrypted messaging services like Telegram.
Council has been charged with conspiracy to commit aggravated identity theft and access device fraud. Currently, there has been no statement from Council’s legal representatives, and the SEC has refrained from commenting on the arrest.
The SEC’s prompt action in removing the false post and renouncing the information certainly helped in reducing the fallout. However, this event is likely to leave lasting effects on public perception regarding cryptocurrency markets and the SEC’s capacity to uphold order within an ever-evolving financial environment.
Moreover, this case serves as a stark reminder that, although the world of cryptocurrency is becoming increasingly mainstream, it remains fraught with risks. Whether arising from market manipulation, cyber intrusions, or misinformation, the dangers posed by digital currencies are ever-present.
Eric Council Jr. from Alabama was detained for his involvement in a scheme to hack the SEC’s X account with the intent of manipulating Bitcoin prices. This incident, which occurred in January, resulted in a temporary rise in Bitcoin’s worth following a fraudulent claim posted on X regarding the SEC’s approval of Bitcoin ETFs. This breach has heightened concerns over X’s security, particularly since Elon Musk assumed control of the platform. Council has been charged with conspiracy to commit aggravated identity theft and access device fraud.
A SIM swap is a method employed by hackers to shift control over a victim’s mobile number to a new device by changing out the SIM card. In this situation, the hackers utilized the SIM swap to access a victim’s phone, allowing them to seize control of the SEC’s X account and post misleading information.
The false announcement on the SEC’s X account suggested that Bitcoin ETFs had been approved, leading to a temporary surge of $1000 USD ($1493 AUD) in Bitcoin’s price. This price rise occurred due to the perceived credibility of the ETF approval.
The breach has highlighted the_security protocols at X, especially since the platform has undergone major changes under Elon Musk’s leadership. With reports of layoffs impacting moderation and security teams, concerns have arisen regarding X’s ability to safeguard prominent accounts from cyber threats.
Council faces charges of conspiracy to commit aggravated identity theft and access device fraud. These allegations stem from his role in the SIM swapping breach that compromised the SEC’s X account.
Bitcoin ETFs provide investors with a means to engage with Bitcoin through the stock market without making direct purchases of the cryptocurrency. The acceptance of Bitcoin ETFs is perceived as a move toward legitimizing Bitcoin as a recognized financial asset.
The SEC swiftly removed the false post and issued a statement to disavow the misleading information. Their quick response helped to reduce the adverse effects caused by the breach.
To bolster security, users managing high-profile accounts should activate two-factor authentication (2FA), use robust passwords, and consistently update their security configurations. Furthermore, platforms like X need to invest in advanced security solutions to thwart similar breaches in the future.
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The recent EU AI Act is exerting pressure on some of the leading artificial intelligence frameworks globally, exposing significant vulnerabilities in areas like cybersecurity and biased outputs. As the regulations of the Act begin to take effect, a novel instrument created by LatticeFlow AI is highlighting where firms like Meta, OpenAI, and others may be lacking.
With artificial intelligence (AI) progressively becoming part of daily life, the European Union has proactively introduced the EU AI Act. This legislation aims to impose strict regulations on artificial intelligence systems, particularly those identified as “general-purpose” AIs (GPAI), which encompasses tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
The AI Act is slated to be fully operational over the next two years, with requirements to ensure that AI systems are competent, secure, and devoid of bias. Companies that do not meet these regulations could face substantial fines of up to €35 million (A$56.6 million) or 7% of their global annual revenue.
A new instrument crafted by Swiss startup LatticeFlow AI, in partnership with ETH Zurich and Bulgaria’s INSAIT, seeks to assist major tech firms in assessing their AI models’ adherence to the AI Act. The instrument, referred to as the “Large Language Model (LLM) Checker,” analyzes AI models across various criteria, including technical robustness, safety, cybersecurity resilience, and bias detection.
The LLM Checker awards a score between 0 and 1 in each category, providing insights into potential deficiencies. Scores over 0.75 signify a solid level of compliance; however, numerous leading models have garnered lower ratings in critical areas.
While the LLM Checker indicates a generally optimistic performance for certain models, notable weaknesses have been pinpointed in essential areas. For example, OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 Turbo received a score of only 0.46 for discriminatory output, raising ongoing concerns about AI model bias. Alibaba Cloud’s “Qwen1.5 72B Chat” didn’t perform better, with a score of 0.37 in the same category.
Concerns regarding cybersecurity resilience are also present. Meta’s “Llama 2 13B Chat” scored a mere 0.42 for “prompt hijacking,” a cyber threat capable of coercing AI systems into revealing sensitive data. Similarly, French startup Mistral’s “8x7B Instruct” model scored low at 0.38.
Among the evaluated models, Anthropic’s “Claude 3 Opus” distinguished itself as the highest achiever, securing an impressive score of 0.89 overall. This serves as a strong indication that models can attain high compliance rates with appropriate attention and resources.
Nonetheless, the varied results underscore the difficulties that major tech players confront in aligning their models with the demanding standards of the AI Act. Companies that do not rectify these issues could face severe repercussions as the EU prepares for thorough enforcement of the Act by 2025.
As the timeline toward complete enforcement of the AI Act approaches, firms are encouraged to utilize tools like the LLM Checker to pinpoint and rectify gaps in their AI models. LatticeFlow CEO Petar Tsankov conveyed optimism for the future, noting that the findings offer firms a clear path to ensure compliance.
“The EU is still finalizing all compliance benchmarks, but we can already detect gaps in the models,” remarked Tsankov. “With enhanced focus on compliance optimization, we trust that model providers can be adequately equipped to satisfy regulatory demands.”
The EU AI Act is poised to reshape the compliance landscape for artificial intelligence, particularly concerning generative models such as ChatGPT. Initial assessments by LatticeFlow’s LLM Checker indicate that while certain AI models are performing commendably, others struggle significantly in critical areas like bias and cybersecurity. With the looming threat of substantial financial penalties, major tech firms must prioritize compliance to avoid contravening the newly implemented regulations.
The EU AI Act is an extensive series of regulations designed to guarantee the safety, equity, and transparency of artificial intelligence systems. It places particular emphasis on general-purpose AI models, including those utilized for natural language processing (e.g., ChatGPT). The Act requires that AI systems fulfill specific standards related to cybersecurity, bias prevention, and technical robustness.
The LLM Checker is a tool created by LatticeFlow AI in partnership with research institutions ETH Zurich and INSAIT. It assesses AI models across a variety of categories, such as safety, cybersecurity, and bias detection. The tool provides a score ranging from 0 to 1, assisting firms in identifying areas where their AI systems may not adhere to the EU AI Act.
Companies that neglect compliance with the EU AI Act may incur fines of up to €35 million (A$56.6 million) or 7% of their global annual turnover. Given the significant stakes, ensuring compliance is critical for any organization developing or employing AI models within Europe.
The LLM Checker has pinpointed numerous significant compliance challenges, including bias in AI models and susceptibility to cyber threats like “prompt hijacking.” For instance, OpenAI’s GPT-3.5 Turbo received a poor rating for discriminatory output, while Meta’s Llama 2 showed weaknesses in cybersecurity resilience.
Organizations can leverage tools like the LLM Checker to evaluate their AI models and identify weaknesses in aspects such as bias and cybersecurity. By proactively addressing these concerns, businesses can ensure they comply with the standards outlined in the AI Act and avert notable fines.
The EU AI Act will be implemented in phases, with full enforcement anticipated by 2025. Meanwhile, the EU is developing a code of practice for generative AI models, which will serve as a compliance benchmark.
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Brendan Dalton, who holds the position of Chief Information Officer at CSIRO, has declared his retirement after almost ten years of dedicated service. Dalton has played a pivotal role in formulating the IT strategy of the organization and is set to depart from CSIRO by year-end. The renowned Australian research institution is currently on the hunt for a new CIO to steer its forthcoming digital transformation initiatives.
After nearly nine years as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation), Brendan Dalton has officially announced his retirement. Dalton has been integral to CSIRO’s IT initiatives, guiding the organization through substantial digital advancements and managing essential projects that have kept CSIRO at the forefront of technology.
Throughout his time, Dalton led the strategic vision for CSIRO’s IT framework. His tenure was marked by the implementation of new technologies, the promotion of innovation, and the assurance of secure and adaptive IT solutions.
Beside his responsibilities as CIO, Dalton also fulfilled the role of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) from March 2022 until September 2023. This dual role underscored the growing significance of cybersecurity in the contemporary IT landscape, particularly for a prominent organization like CSIRO. His oversight in both areas helped guarantee the security of CSIRO’s IT systems while facilitating technological progress.
Dalton concluded his time as CISO when Jamie Rossato was appointed the new CISO in September 2023, allowing Dalton to concentrate on his CIO duties leading up to his retirement.
CSIRO is currently searching for a new CIO who can not only carry on Dalton’s legacy but also guide the organization into its next digital transformation phase. The upcoming Chief Information Officer will need to create and implement an IT vision and strategic framework that aligns with CSIRO’s objectives of advancing scientific and technological frontiers.
According to CSIRO’s job listing, the new CIO is expected to be both a “pragmatic and inspirational leader.” They will oversee the implementation of innovative and effective information governance and cybersecurity measures, ensuring the proper management of CSIRO’s information systems and IT infrastructure.
The new CIO will be required to evaluate innovative, emerging technologies and guide a digital transformation in accordance with regulatory standards. Cybersecurity remains a pressing issue for organizations worldwide, and CSIRO is no different. The CIO must effectively manage IT and security-related risks while ensuring the seamless operation of all IT systems.
A key responsibility of the incoming CIO will involve overseeing CSIRO’s Dell-designed high-performance computer (HPC), Virga. This advanced computing system plays a vital role in CSIRO’s research and innovation activities, facilitating intricate simulations and data evaluations across various scientific fields.
Another major undertaking for the incoming CIO will be the ongoing replacement of two key enterprise platforms at CSIRO. These systems, which include an SAP-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and a proprietary research management platform, are slated for replacement by 2027, with the new CIO spearheading a smooth transition.
This initiative forms part of CSIRO’s broader strategy to modernize its IT infrastructure and enhance its expanding research activities. The updated systems will be essential in enabling improved resource management, research oversight, and operational efficiency.
The retirement of Brendan Dalton signifies the conclusion of a significant chapter in CSIRO’s IT leadership. With nearly ten years in office, Dalton has made substantial contributions to the digital transformation efforts of the organization. As CSIRO gazes toward the future, the next CIO will carry the vital responsibility of advancing the institution’s IT vision, concentrating on innovation, cybersecurity, and the overhaul of core enterprise systems by 2027.
Brendan Dalton is retiring after nearly nine years of service in the role of CSIRO’s Chief Information Officer. While no explicit reasons have been provided for his departure, it’s common for individuals in senior positions to conclude their roles after lengthy tenures.
The new CIO will be responsible for shaping and executing CSIRO’s IT vision and strategic initiatives. This includes managing the organization’s IT systems, directing the operation of the Dell-built Virga high-performance computer, and overseeing the replacement of core enterprise platforms by 2027.
Besides his CIO responsibilities, Brendan Dalton also acted as CSIRO’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) from March 2022 until September 2023. During this time, he was charged with ensuring the cybersecurity of CSIRO’s IT infrastructure, working to minimize potential risks and protect sensitive data.
Virga is CSIRO’s Dell-built high-performance computer (HPC). It is essential for facilitating advanced scientific research by managing large-scale simulations and data processing. The management of Virga will be a crucial task for the incoming CIO.
CSIRO is in the process of replacing two primary enterprise systems: an SAP-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and a custom-built research management system. These platforms are scheduled for replacement by 2027, and the incoming CIO will supervise this transition.
