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ACT’s $30 Million Overhaul of HR System Under Review Due to Increasing Employee Turnover

Matthew Miller on July 26, 2025

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Quick Overview

The ACT government is enhancing its HR system with a budget of $30.7 million.
The PC-HRM project is under examination due to elevated staff turnover and cultural challenges.
The initiative seeks to supersede prior unsuccessful efforts with SAP SuccessFactors.
Agreements with Frontier Software and Accenture are vital aspects of the enhancement.
The upgrade is anticipated to be finalized by June 2026, with complete rostering by June 2027.

Insights into the HR System Revamp

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government is currently engaged in a major upgrade of its human resources infrastructures, expected to be finished by 2026. This $30.7 million revamp, referred to as the Payroll Capability and Human Resource Management (PC-HRM) project, aims to replace obsolete systems and rectify previous shortcomings with the SAP SuccessFactors integration.

ACT's HR system upgrade encounters hurdles amid personnel shifts

Workforce Turnover and Obstacles in the Project

The project’s personnel includes 143 members, comprising public servants, consultants, and contractors. Yet, notable turnover has been observed, with 35 new hires and 21 exits over a span of two years. Concerns regarding cultural matters, exclusion, and leadership issues have surfaced, leading to scrutiny from ACT Legislative Assembly opposition members.

Officials have cited a variety of reasons for staff departures, including project completions, new opportunities, and personal reasons while reaffirming their dedication to a respectful work environment. An ongoing evaluation is addressing these issues.

The Challenging Journey Toward Modernisation

The PC-HRM initiative follows the failed HRIMS project, which utilized $77.63 million but yielded minimal outcomes. The current endeavor focuses on upgrading the existing systems, streamlining payroll processes, and rolling out self-service features.

Contracts with Frontier Software for system support and Accenture for integration are essential to the project’s development. As of April 2025, $19.13 million has been expended, consistent with the project budget.

Prospects and Completion Schedule

Despite changes in workforce, the ACT government assures that the primary payroll and HR platform enhancements are on track for completion by June 2026. A rostering and attendance solution for the entire ACT public service is forecasted for June 2027. The complexity of the project maintains it at an “amber” status, indicating ongoing challenges and risks.

Conclusion

The ACT government’s $30.7 million HR system enhancement aims to modernise and centralise payroll and HR functions. While it confronts scrutiny over staff turnover and cultural concerns, the project is progressing towards completion by 2026, with a comprehensive rostering solution by 2027. Key collaborations with Frontier Software and Accenture are crucial to this multifaceted upgrade.

Q&A Segment

Q: What is the financial allocation for the ACT’s HR system enhancement?

A: The financial allocation for the Payroll Capability and Human Resource Management (PC-HRM) initiative is $30.7 million.

Q: What are the reasons for the project’s scrutiny?

A: The project is scrutinised due to significant staff turnover, cultural concerns, and accusations of improper conduct within the team.

Q: When is the project anticipated to reach completion?

A: The essential HR system upgrade is projected to be finished by June 2026, with a rostering solution anticipated by June 2027.

Q: Who are the primary contractors involved in the enhancement?

A: Frontier Software and Accenture are the main contractors, tasked with system support and integration respectively.

Q: What are the key functionalities of the enhanced system?

A: The enhancement seeks to centralise payroll systems, automate processes, and offer staff self-service options.

Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi Review

Matthew Miller on July 25, 2025

Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Wi-Fi – 11 mm HiFi Triple Driver, 55 dB ANC Active Noise Cancellation and 15 m/s ENC, Lossless Qualcomm Sound and Harman AudioEFX, Black

From Culture to Implementation: Leveraging Alignment to Propel a New Phase of Organisational Transformation

Matthew Miller on July 25, 2025

Leveraging Alignment: Promoting Organisational Transformation

Quick Overview

Execution is emerging as the principal competitive edge as strategies become readily duplicable.
Integrating culture into everyday operations is vital for significant organisational transformation.
Alignment necessitates a transition to an enterprise-wide, customer-focused perspective.
Openness, data as a shared language, and decentralised decision-making are essential.
Engagement systems are necessary to link execution with results.

Integrating Culture into Everyday Operations

In the swiftly changing business environment we face today, where strategies can be quickly replicated, effective execution has become the true differentiator. The focus on culture and interconnected data is stronger than ever. Rohini Sharma, Head of Go To Market for APJ at monday.com, emphasizes the necessity of operationalizing culture to facilitate significant change.

The Strength of Alignment

monday.com incorporates alignment into its fundamental strategy via a streamlined OKR framework, promoting collaboration and continuous advancement. Sharma emphasizes the importance of moving away from isolated thinking towards a broader, customer-centric viewpoint.

Key Imperatives for Leaders

Sharma outlines three critical imperatives to close the gap between strategy and execution:

Complete transparency concerning goals, progress, and challenges.
Leveraging data as a universal language.
Decentralizing decision-making to eliminate bottlenecks.

Engagement Systems

Numerous organizations encounter difficulties in linking individual efforts to business outcomes due to data silos and lack of context. Effective engagement systems are vital for clarifying the execution-impact relationship, as noted by Gemma Dias from Tyro Payments.

Enabling Teams with Clarity

Anthony Perera from Swinburne University highlights the significance of training and equipping teams with the appropriate tools to safely operationalize culture and systems. Leaders are encouraged to foster discussions about aligning work with major organizational KPIs.

Conclusion

As organizations seek a competitive advantage, incorporating culture into operations and promoting alignment through integrated systems and data is crucial. By empowering employees with transparency and purpose, businesses can facilitate sustainable change and drive meaningful transformation.

Q: Why is execution becoming the competitive advantage?

A: In a setting where strategies can be swiftly duplicated, the ability to execute efficiently sets successful organizations apart.

Q: How can culture be operationalised?

A: By infusing culture into daily operations and ensuring it is evident in systems guiding team activities, culture evolves into a catalyst for change.

Q: What role does data play in organisational change?

A: Data acts as a shared language and a means for transparency, facilitating quicker, more confident decision-making by linking individual efforts to broader business results.

Q: What are systems of engagement?

A: Systems of engagement are frameworks that connect execution and impact, offering visibility and context to help employees comprehend their contributions toward organizational objectives.

Q: How can leaders promote alignment?

A: Leaders should advocate for transparency, decentralise decision-making, and involve teams in discussions regarding how their efforts align with critical business goals.

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Matthew Miller on July 25, 2025

JBL TUNE235NC TWS True Wireless NC Earbuds ANC/Dual MIC/Multi PO

SpinTel Enters the Arena: $74/Month for a 500/50Mbps NBN Package

Nicholas Webb on July 25, 2025

Quick Read

SpinTel launches a new NBN plan with speeds of 500/50Mbps for A$74 monthly.
This promotion is valid for 6 months, after which the price rises to A$84.95 ongoing.
SpinTel’s offering is in competition with recent deals from Exetel and Tangerine.
Consumers benefit from no-contract options, simplifying the process of changing plans.
Fast internet is essential for remote working and streaming applications.
SpinTel also provides a 750/50Mbps option for A$80 per month for the first 6 months.
Unlimited data packages are increasingly prevalent, eliminating data limits.

SpinTel’s Competitive Advantage

SpinTel has unveiled a competitive NBN plan offering 500/50Mbps at a low cost of A$74 monthly for the initial six months, transitioning to A$84.95 thereafter. This scheme positions SpinTel effectively against rivals like Exetel and Tangerine, who have likewise been modifying their pricing models.

Customer Flexibility

In the current marketplace, consumers are free from long-term contracts. SpinTel’s no-contract model empowers users to benefit from attractive pricing without obligations, facilitating easier provider switches when favorable offers present themselves.

Addressing Contemporary Needs

The need for high-speed internet is propelled by the growing demand for remote work functions, quality streaming, and smart home technology. SpinTel’s plan aims to meet these requirements, delivering outstanding speed and dependability.

Extra Offers and Advantages

Moreover, SpinTel has a 750/50Mbps plan available for A$80 during the initial six months, followed by a rate of A$90.95 ongoing. This plan is ideal for customers seeking higher speeds and strategically aims to seize a larger share of the high-speed internet sector.

Unlimited Data Options

Data limits are fading, as many recent plans provide unlimited data options. This is especially beneficial for gamers and streamers who frequently download significant amounts of data.

Overview

With its competitive pricing strategy on new NBN plans, SpinTel presents an excellent chance for Australian consumers to access high-speed internet at attractive prices. The absence of contracts along with unlimited data positions SpinTel to redefine the market standards.

Q: What is the price of SpinTel’s new 500/50Mbps plan?

A: The plan is priced at A$74 monthly for the first six months, increasing to A$84.95 ongoing.

Q: How does SpinTel’s pricing measure up against other ISPs?

A: SpinTel’s pricing is competitive, lower than Exetel’s offer of A$80 per month and contending with Tangerine’s initial rate of A$68.90.

Q: Are contracts necessary for SpinTel’s plans?

A: No, SpinTel provides its plans without any contractual obligations, allowing flexibility to change plans as necessary.

Q: What other plan does SpinTel provide?

A: SpinTel features a 750/50Mbps plan for A$80 monthly for the first six months, shifting to A$90.95 subsequently.

Q: Are data plans restricted or unlimited?

A: SpinTel’s plans typically include unlimited data, alleviating worries about data restrictions.

Q: How can I determine if my address qualifies for SpinTel’s NBN plan?

A: Eligibility is contingent on NBN availability at your location. You can verify your status on SpinTel’s website.

Australia Post Teams Up with Adobe for Customer Experience Revamp

Vanessa May on July 25, 2025

Australia Post Collaborates with Adobe for Customer Experience Enhancement

Quick Overview

Australia Post teams up with Adobe to elevate digital customer engagement.
The effort aims to bring together creativity, marketing, and AI for tailored experiences.
Adobe’s solutions will optimize content creation and refine backend operations.
This transformation is in line with Australia Post’s Post26 strategy to prepare for the future.

Australia Post’s Strategic Alliance with Adobe

Australia Post engages Adobe for customer experience improvement

(L-R) Shantanu Narayen, Adobe chair and CEO and Paul Graham, Group CEO and Managing Director of Australia Post.

Australia Post is initiating a major digital transformation journey by utilizing Adobe’s tools to enhance customer interaction with its digital offerings. This strategic collaboration is intended to merge creativity, marketing, and AI to provide customized experiences on a larger scale.

Improving Customer Engagement

The main objective of this partnership is to personalize customer interactions, allowing them to execute transactions more smoothly and conveniently. Adobe’s systems will enable better collaboration between creative and marketing teams, optimizing content creation processes and enriching the overall customer journey.

Utilizing AI and Real-time Insights

By incorporating Adobe’s generative AI features, Australia Post intends to enhance the creation of distinctive content for digital marketing and ecommerce. Michael McNamara, Executive General Manager of Enterprise Services, emphasized the significance of leveraging AI and real-time insights to grasp customer requirements, customize services, and simplify interactions.

Aligning with the Post26 Initiative

This project is integral to Australia Post’s extensive Customer Experience Transformation (CXT) program, which has previously integrated technologies from Salesforce and Microsoft. As a pivotal technical component of the Post26 strategy, this evolution aims to secure Australia Post’s future by positioning it as the go-to partner for ecommerce deliveries.

Conclusion

Through its collaboration with Adobe, Australia Post is set to transform its digital customer interactions. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, the postal service aspires to provide more personalized, efficient, and seamless experiences. This evolution is a vital element of Australia Post’s Post26 strategy, equipping the organization for sustained success in the digital era.

Q&A

Q: What is the main objective of Australia Post’s partnership with Adobe?

A: The aim is to enhance digital customer interactions using Adobe’s software to offer personalized experiences and streamline backend processes.

Q: How will Adobe’s technology affect Australia Post’s operations?

A: Adobe’s platforms will integrate creativity, marketing, and AI, enhancing content production workflows and facilitating smoother customer transactions.

Q: What does the Post26 strategy entail?

A: The Post26 strategy is Australia Post’s roadmap for future-proofing the organization by becoming the preferred partner for ecommerce deliveries and boosting digital capabilities.

Q: How is this transformation related to previous initiatives by Australia Post?

A: This endeavor builds on earlier technology integrations, such as Salesforce and Microsoft, as part of a comprehensive Customer Experience Transformation program.

Q: What role does AI play in this transformation?

A: AI is utilized to gain insights into customer needs, customize services, and enhance interactions, thereby elevating the overall customer experience.

Sudio N2 Pro (Steel Blue) Wireless Earbuds Review

Matthew Miller on July 24, 2025

SUDIO N2 PRO (Steel Blue) Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.3, iOS & Android, Active Noise Cancelling, ANC IPX4 Level, Waterproof Design, Scandinavian Design, SDGs, Sustainable, Gift

Poll Uncovers Starlink’s Interference with Radio Astronomy Telescopes

wpengine on July 24, 2025

Impact of Starlink Satellites on Radio Astronomy

Brief Overview

SpaceX’s Starlink satellites are affecting radio astronomy observations.
A study by Curtin University identified more than 112,000 radio emissions from Starlink satellites.
Interference impacts as much as 30% of the images obtained by radio telescopes.
Unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR) poses a serious concern.
There is ongoing constructive engagement between CIRA and SpaceX.
Other low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, such as Amazon’s Kuiper, are also in the pipeline.

Examining Starlink’s Influence on Radio Astronomy

Recent findings from the Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy (CIRA) at Curtin University reveal substantial interference from SpaceX’s Starlink satellites on radio astronomy observations. The investigation took place over four months and underscored the mounting challenges astronomers face due to the rising number of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

Interference from Starlink and radio astronomy

Insights from the Study

The team at CIRA discovered over 112,000 radio emissions from 1,806 Starlink satellites through the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) and the Engineering Development Array 2 (EDA2), the prototype for the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). Shockingly, interference was present in up to 30% of the images obtained.

Unintended Electromagnetic Radiation (UEMR)

An important finding was the detection of unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR) from these satellites. Signals from 703 satellites in the 150.8 megahertz range, which should not have been detected, were observed. This radiation is likely emanating from satellite subsystems like electronics, propulsion, or avionics.

Regulatory Measures and Industry Response

Professor Steven Tingay, the executive director of CIRA, indicated that Starlink is not breaching any existing regulations. The interactions between CIRA and SpaceX have been productive, and collaborative efforts are being developed to tackle these issues.

The Wider Landscape: Other LEO Constellations

The emergence of LEO satellite constellations is not solely confined to Starlink. Amazon’s Kuiper and Eutelsat’s OneWeb are also initiating large-scale constellations, alongside plans from Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology and Russia’s Sfera. These advancements emphasize the necessity for global collaboration and regulation in space technology.

Conclusion

The study from Curtin University emphasizes the profound effects of Starlink satellites on radio astronomy, particularly concerning unintended electromagnetic radiation. Although existing regulations are not being breached, the results indicate the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between space enterprises and the scientific community to lessen these effects as the quantity of LEO satellites increases.

Q&A Segment

Q: What is the primary concern regarding Starlink satellites and radio astronomy?

A: The foremost concern is the interference from unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR) emitted by Starlink satellites, which disrupts radio telescope observations.

Q: What insights did Curtin University’s study provide?

A: The research identified over 112,000 radio emissions from Starlink satellites, with interference detected in up to 30% of the images.

Q: Are Starlink satellites in breach of any regulations?

A: No, Starlink is complying with current regulations, and the discussions between CIRA and SpaceX have been positive.

Q: What other LEO satellite constellations are in progress?

A: Other constellations include Amazon’s Kuiper, Eutelsat’s OneWeb, and future launches by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology and Russia’s Sfera.

HiFiMAN SVANAR Wireless LE Noise Cancelling Bluetooth in-Ear Hi-Fi Earphones with Hymalaya DAC, Topology Membrane Driver, IPX5 Water/Sweat Resistant, Brown Review

Matthew Miller on July 24, 2025

HiFiMAN SVANAR Wireless LE Noise Cancelling Bluetooth in-Ear Hi-Fi Earphones with Hymalaya DAC, Topology Membrane Driver, IPX5 Water/Sweat Resistant, Brown

Government Reveals Local GPT-4o for Australian Public Sector

Nicholas Webb on July 24, 2025

Australia Adopts AI with Domestic GPT-4o Deployment

Overview

The national government has introduced a locally-hosted version of GPT-4o for the Australian Public Service (APS).
This effort is part of the GovAI initiative, aimed at increasing AI utilization in public services.
The project is presently in a closed beta stage but is set to grow by November.
Key contributors in the AI hosting domain include Microsoft and Amazon.
New AI tools for personnel feature the Assessment Assistant and Knowledge Assistant applications.
The GovAI task force provides support for the initiative through technical know-how and training.

Background

The Australian government has made a notable advancement in integrating artificial intelligence by discreetly launching an onshore version of OpenAI’s GPT-4o for the Australian Public Service (APS). This action is a component of a comprehensive strategy aimed at boosting AI capabilities within governmental bodies, referred to as the GovAI initiative.

Australian government launches local GPT-4o for public service

Overview of the GovAI Initiative

The GovAI program, spearheaded by the Department of Finance, aims to optimize AI usage across the APS. By granting access to leading-edge AI resources, the initiative aspires to minimize resource repetition and encourage innovation in governmental procedures. At present in a closed beta phase, GovAI plans to broaden its reach by November, facilitating greater involvement among government entities.

AI Hosting and Integration

Since January, preliminary measures have been implemented to incorporate AI hosting capabilities within the APS. Microsoft-powered AI hosting is integrated into the GovTEAMS platform, with early proposals for Amazon-hosted AI services in progress, anticipated to be operational by the end of FY25. These initiatives establish a solid foundation for AI implementation throughout the government.

Introduction of New AI Applications

The APS has rolled out a new AI chat application and created two prototype applications to improve service delivery. The Assessment Assistant app offers initial evaluations for applications or submissions, like grant requests. In addition, the Knowledge Assistant app enables staff to investigate complex datasets, including procurement regulations, highlighting the tangible advantages of AI integration.

Security and Development Protocols

To bolster these initiatives, application designs undergo security assessments and templated applications are being formulated. These efforts promote expedited and secure development for smaller governmental agencies, guaranteeing that AI functionalities adhere to rigorous security norms.

Training and Assistance

A dedicated GovAI task force, comprised of technical specialists from various government sectors, backs the program. Training on AI frameworks, including Gemini, Claude, and GPT, is provided to ensure staff can effectively leverage these technologies. The program will also entertain new AI frameworks and hosting solutions by November.

Conclusion

The strategic implementation of GPT-4o by the Australian government for the public service signifies a critical achievement in AI adoption. Through the integration of AI solutions and stimulation of innovation, the GovAI initiative seeks to improve effectiveness and service provision across governmental agencies. With continued support and training, this initiative is poised to revolutionize public service operations in Australia.

Q: What is the objective of the GovAI program?

A: The GovAI program aims to promote AI adoption within the Australian Public Service, offering access to AI resources to boost efficiency and lessen resource redundancy.

Q: Which organizations are participating in AI hosting services?

A: Microsoft and Amazon play significant roles in delivering AI hosting services under the GovAI program framework.

Q: What new AI applications have been launched?

A: The Assessment Assistant app and Knowledge Assistant app have been created to give staff insights into applications and to navigate complex datasets, respectively.

Q: When will the GovAI program undergo expansion?

A: The program is expected to expand by November, enabling additional government entities to engage.

Q: In what way does the GovAI task force assist the program?

A: The task force delivers technical expertise and training on various AI models to guarantee government staff’s effective use of AI resources.

Q: What security measures are in place for new AI applications?

A: High-level design documentation for security-assessed applications and templated applications are being created to ensure efficient and secure development practices.