Category: Australia Tech News

SmartGate Kiosk Malfunction Disrupts Operations of Australian Border Force

Brief Summary

• The SmartGate kiosks operated by the Australian Border Force experienced a nationwide malfunction.
• Significant disruptions were reported at international airports in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
• Passengers underwent manual processing, resulting in extensive queues and delays at various airports.
• Approximately 1000 passengers were impacted at Melbourne Airport, which saw three flights delayed.
• Systems were back online by midday AEDT, with the cause of the malfunction still being examined.
• Additional ABF personnel were assigned to assist with manual processing and minimize disruptions.

Significant SmartGate Kiosk Malfunction Disrupts Australian Airports

On this day, significant interruptions occurred at Australia’s international airports when the Australian Border Force’s (ABF) SmartGate kiosks went offline for several hours due to a technical malfunction. This incident affected major airports in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, leading international passengers to undergo manual processing, which caused long queues and delayed flights.

Effects Across Key Airports

The malfunction impacted both arriving and departing passengers at some of Australia’s busiest international terminals. Melbourne Airport was notably hit, with around 1000 passengers affected and three flights delayed. Significant delays were also reported at Sydney and Brisbane airports, prompting the deployment of additional ABF personnel to assist with manual processing.

Reports from the ABC indicated that travelers in Sydney and Melbourne encountered particularly lengthy queues. The manual procedures for passport checks and customs clearance, which are typically managed by automated SmartGates, considerably reduced the efficiency of passenger processing.

Resolution by Midday

As of midday AEDT, the ABF confirmed that the situation was resolved and systems were functioning again. A spokesperson from the ABF commented, “The Australian Border Force has been addressing a technical malfunction affecting both inbound and outbound passengers at international airports nationwide this morning. By midday AEDT, the issue has been resolved across all airports, and all systems have resumed operations.”

Though service has been restored, the ABF continues to investigate the underlying cause of the malfunction. They also expressed gratitude to travelers for their understanding during the incident, which led to delays during a peak travel period.

SmartGate Systems: Essential Components of Australian Border Operations

SmartGates are automated self-service kiosks utilized by the Australian Border Force to enhance the efficiency of clearing passengers through customs and immigration. These systems employ facial recognition technology and biometric data to automatically correlate travelers with their passport information, thereby significantly lessening wait times and human errors compared to manual procedures.

A widespread malfunction such as the one experienced today can rapidly lead to considerable disruptions, as manual processing is inherently slower and demands more personnel. The ABF’s swift action in assigning extra officers helped to alleviate the situation, although many passengers in Melbourne and Sydney still faced considerable delays.

Possible Causes and Future Precautions

While the specific cause of the malfunction is still uncertain, issues with large-scale digital systems like SmartGates can arise from various factors including software glitches, hardware failures, or network connectivity issues. The ABF’s ongoing investigation will likely aim to determine the root cause and implement measures to avert similar disruptions in the future.

This incident emphasizes the increasing dependence on automated systems in critical infrastructure and the necessity for effective contingency plans. As Australia progressively adopts digital transformation across various sectors, including border security, guaranteeing the reliability of these systems will be essential.

Conclusion

Today’s SmartGate malfunction at major Australian international airports caused considerable delays and disruptions for passengers, necessitating manual processing by ABF officers. Although the issue was resolved by midday, it affected thousands of travelers, particularly in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. The ABF is currently looking into the cause of the malfunction, and it is anticipated that measures will be taken to prevent future disruptions.

Q: What is a SmartGate kiosk, and what is its function?

A:

SmartGate kiosks are automated systems employed in Australian international airports to facilitate the passport control process. They utilize facial recognition technology and biometric data to match a passenger’s face with their passport photo, providing quicker and more efficient processing without human involvement.

Q: How long did the malfunction persist?

A:

The malfunction lasted for several hours in the morning, with systems being completely restored by midday AEDT. During this period, passengers underwent manual processing, leading to long queues and delays.

Q: Which airports were affected by the SmartGate malfunction?

A:

The malfunction impacted major international airports throughout Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. At Melbourne Airport, approximately 1000 passengers were affected, and three flights were delayed due to the malfunction.

Q: What actions did the Australian Border Force take to mitigate the disruption?

A:

The ABF deployed additional personnel to manage passengers manually and minimize the impact of the malfunction. While this helped to some degree, extensive queues and delays were still noted at several airports.

Q: Is the cause of the SmartGate malfunction known?

A:

Currently, the precise cause of the malfunction remains under investigation. The ABF is undertaking a thorough review to pinpoint the technical issue and apply measures to prevent future incidents.

Q: What measures will the ABF implement to avert similar events in the future?

A:

While the ABF has not yet disclosed specific details, the investigation into the malfunction will likely lead to the establishment of safeguards and contingency plans to ensure the robustness of the SmartGate systems in the future.

Q: Were any flights delayed due to the malfunction?

A:

Yes, at Melbourne Airport alone, three departure flights were delayed as a result of the disruption caused by the SmartGate malfunction.

Q: Are SmartGate malfunctions frequent in Australia?

A:

No, SmartGate malfunctions are relatively uncommon. However, when they do occur, they can result in significant disruptions due to the reliance on these automated systems for efficient border control.

Gen3 Supercars Set to Hit iRacing Starting December 10

In thrilling news for fans of motorsport and sim racing aficionados, iRacing will unveil the eagerly awaited Gen3 Supercars in its 2025 Season 1 update, set to launch on December 10th. Followers of Australian Supercars can finally take control of the Chevrolet Camaro Gen3 and Ford Mustang Gen3 in the virtual realm, signifying a major leap from the last generation of racing vehicles. These fresh models have been carefully crafted in partnership with Supercars, Chevrolet, and Ford, ensuring a racing experience that closely mirrors reality.

Quick Overview

• New Gen3 Supercars: iRacing will introduce the Chevrolet Camaro Gen3 and Ford Mustang Gen3 on December 10.
• Improved Realism: The latest models boast enhanced physics, tire modeling, and graphics for a more immersive racing experience.
• Legacy Content: The Holden ZB Commodore and Ford Mustang GT will become legacy content, with credits awarded to recent buyers.
• Gen3 Supercar Adjustments: Notable improvements in aerodynamics, chassis design, and engine performance, encouraging tighter and more thrilling racing.
• Cost Efficiency: Gen3 Supercars are engineered to be more economical to construct and maintain, both on real circuits and in the virtual realm.

What Constitutes Gen3 Supercars?

Gen3 Supercars, which made their debut in the Australian Supercars Championship in 2023, represent the most recent advancement in racing technology. Initially envisioned in 2020, these vehicles aim to facilitate closer racing, lower costs, and enhance their resemblance to consumer vehicles. With the 2025 Season 1 update from iRacing, virtual racers will finally get the chance to drive these innovative machines.

Closer to Consumer Models

The new Gen3 Supercars are crafted to resemble their road-going versions more closely. The Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang within the game will feature a more robust, aggressive appearance, closely resembling the cars found on Australian streets. This evolution is intended to boost fan involvement by making the race cars more relatable to everyday automobiles.

Reduced Downforce for More Intense Racing

A significant alteration in the Gen3 Supercars is the downforce reduction, now about 60% less than the Gen2 vehicles. This change presents a more challenging driving experience, fostering closer racing and increased overtaking chances. Achieving this involves implementing simpler aerodynamic designs with smaller rear wings and diffusers.

Technical Innovations in Gen3 Supercars

New Control Chassis

At the heart of the Gen3 Supercars lies a new control chassis. This structure is lighter and more cost-efficient to produce, accommodating the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro body styles. The revamped chassis design is vital in decreasing the overall manufacturing costs while enhancing performance on the track.

Engine Enhancements

While the Gen3 vehicles retain the classic V8 engines, they have been slightly tuned down, generating approximately 600 horsepower as opposed to the 650+ horsepower of the Gen2 models. This adjustment aligns with the reduced downforce strategy, emphasizing driver skill and racing tactics over sheer speed.

Transaxle Gearbox and Larger Tires

A noteworthy upgrade is the implementation of a transaxle gearbox at the rear of the car. This modification improves weight distribution, enhancing the handling and overall balance of the vehicles. Additionally, the Gen3 Supercars will utilize 18-inch wheels with wider tires, providing superior grip and responsiveness on the track.

Simplified Suspension System

The suspension in the Gen3 Supercars has been streamlined, lowering costs and offering reduced adjustability. This simplification is part of the broader objective to make the vehicles more affordable to manufacture and maintain, while still delivering an exhilarating racing experience.

Legacy Content and Credits for Recent Buyers

For those who have recently acquired the current Supercars Ford Mustang GT or Supercars Holden ZB Commodore in iRacing, there’s positive news. To ease the transition, iRacing will provide credits to anyone who purchased these models in the previous year. The amount of credit will be based on how recent the purchase was.

Following the launch of the Gen3 vehicles, the Ford Mustang GT and Holden ZB Commodore will be designated as legacy content. They will no longer participate in competitive racing series, but will still be available for players who wish to use them in other formats within iRacing.

What to Anticipate on Launch Day

The introduction of the Gen3 Supercars on December 10 is set to be a pivotal moment for sim racing enthusiasts, particularly in Australia. With the new Supercars, iRacing users can expect a more immersive and lifelike racing experience, thanks to enhanced physics, tire modeling, and graphical upgrades that have been integrated into the game.

If you’re new to iRacing or contemplating renewing your subscription, iRacing is currently featuring Black Friday offers, providing 50% off new memberships and 25% off renewals. This is an excellent chance for Australian racing supporters to get involved and experience the new Gen3 Supercars on launch day.

Conclusion

The introduction of Gen3 Supercars in iRacing on December 10 heralds a new era for sim racers and Australian motorsport fans alike. With key changes in aerodynamics, chassis, and engine performance, the Gen3 vehicles promise to deliver an exhilarating and engaging racing experience. Additionally, iRacing is granting credits to recent buyers of the outgoing Supercars models, facilitating a smoother transition for existing players. Whether you’re a seasoned sim racer or a newcomer to the game, the arrival of Gen3 Supercars is an occasion you won’t want to overlook.

FAQ

Q: What are the main differences between Gen2 and Gen3 Supercars?

A:

The Gen3 Supercars showcase a design that is more aligned with road vehicles, decreased downforce for tighter racing, and a new control chassis that is lighter and more economical. They also have slightly detuned engines producing around 600 horsepower and use a transaxle gearbox for improved weight distribution.

Q: Will the older Supercars (Ford Mustang GT and Holden ZB Commodore) still be accessible in iRacing?

A:

Indeed, they will remain accessible but will be reclassified as legacy content. This indicates they will not be included in competitive series but can still be utilized for other types of racing within iRacing.

Q: How will credits for recent purchases function?

A:

iRacing will grant credits to users who bought the Ford Mustang GT or Holden ZB Commodore within the last 365 days. The credit amount will vary based on the recency of the purchase. This offer will conclude upon the release of the new Gen3 vehicles.

Q: What enhancements can players anticipate in the Gen3 Supercars on iRacing?

A:

The Gen3 Supercars will leverage iRacing’s newest advancements in physics modeling, tire modeling, and visual fidelity. Players can look forward to a more authentic and demanding driving experience, with improved handling and enhanced graphics.

Q: When will the Gen3 Supercars be made available in iRacing?

A:

The Gen3 Supercars will be accessible on December 10, 2024, as part of iRacing’s 2025 Season 1 update.

Q: Can new iRacing users benefit from any discounts?

A:

Yes, in celebration of Black Friday, iRacing is offering 50% off new memberships and 25% off early renewals. This presents a fantastic opportunity for newcomers to join and experience the Gen3 Supercars on launch day.

Suncorp’s Revolutionary ERP Revamp: A Fresh Chapter for the Insurance Leader

Suncorp, one of Australia’s foremost insurance entities, is launching an ambitious, years-long technological transformation initiative focused on enhancing its enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. This initiative is part of a wider strategy aimed at boosting operational effectiveness, refining processes, and incorporating state-of-the-art AI solutions.

Quick Overview

• Suncorp is revamping its ERP system as part of a multi-year technological initiative.
• New platforms for HR and payroll are introduced to streamline operations.
• Suncorp’s AI roadmap features 20 internally focused generative AI use cases for FY25.
• More than 100 traditional AI use cases are being developed, with Microsoft Copilot integration.
• A modern cloud-based contact centre platform is set to improve customer service and integrate AI functionalities.

Enhancing Human Resources and Payroll Systems

Suncorp is in the stages of implementing a new human resources (HR) system and managed payroll service. The objective is to streamline business operations and improve the comprehensive employee lifecycle. By consolidating these capabilities, Suncorp anticipates enhancing internal efficiencies and offering a more cohesive experience for its employees.

Financial Management Upgrade

Alongside advancements in HR and payroll, Suncorp is also developing a unified financial management platform. This revamp is intended to integrate and simplify backend functions, allowing the firm to better oversee its financial operations. These modifications are integral to Suncorp’s broader initiative to enhance business functions through technology-driven strategies.

Suncorp’s Generative AI Initiatives

Generative AI is emerging as a central component for Suncorp, with the insurer in the process of creating 20 use cases targeted at internal operations for FY25. Suncorp CIO Adam Bennett states that these AI efforts will initially focus on bolstering internal functions before expanding into customer-focused services in subsequent years.

“We have prioritized lower-risk generative AI cases for FY25, centering on internal processes to enhance our team with plans to transition to more customer-facing generative AI applications in the future as the technology and capabilities evolve,” Bennett noted during a recent investor strategy briefing.

Suncorp’s AI initiatives are spearheaded by Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Priyanka Paranagama, who was appointed in September to the newly established role of Executive General Manager of AI Transformation. With Paranagama at the helm, Suncorp plans to progressively expand its AI capacity, gradually pivoting towards applications that serve customers directly in the coming years.

Employee Training in AI

In preparation for an AI-driven landscape, Suncorp has launched a comprehensive AI training program for its workforce. Thousands of employees are engaging in hackathons, formal training courses, and reskilling opportunities. This focus on AI learning aims to foster a culture of innovation and readiness across the entire company.

Microsoft Copilot and AI Automation

Suncorp is already utilizing Microsoft’s AI-enhanced Copilot across its SaaS platforms, driving automation and system advancements. In addition, the company has implemented over 100 traditional AI use cases and rolled out 470 software robots. These robots have successfully automated approximately 30 million transactions in the past financial year, significantly boosting efficiency and minimizing manual tasks.

Moreover, Suncorp’s AI-powered chatbots have engaged in more than 2 million interactions through the company’s digital channels, improving customer interaction and support.

Upgrading the Contact Centre with AI-Integrated Technology

As part of its transformation plan, Suncorp is also enhancing its cloud-based contact centre platform, replacing the existing Genesys system. This upgrade is aimed at improving customer experiences and integrating AI functionalities into Suncorp’s customer service operations. By modernizing its contact centre, Suncorp aims to facilitate more fluid and efficient customer interactions.

Conclusion

Suncorp is undergoing a transformative journey with its ERP revamp, focusing on optimizing operations, improving employee management, and integrating advanced AI technologies. While the company’s multi-year strategy currently emphasizes internal improvements, Suncorp intends to broaden its AI capabilities to include customer-facing services in the future. The collaboration with Microsoft Copilot and automation technologies underscores Suncorp’s dedication to innovation and operational efficiency.

Q: What is the objective of Suncorp’s ERP overhaul?

A:

The ERP overhaul aims to streamline business processes, particularly in the areas of human resources, payroll, and financial management. Suncorp seeks to refine backend processes and enhance the overall experience of the employee lifecycle.

Q: How is Suncorp integrating generative AI in its operations?

A:

Suncorp is developing 20 generative AI use cases for FY25, focusing on enhancing internal operations. These AI applications are intended to support employees’ work, with future plans to expand into customer-facing AI solutions as the technology develops.

Q: What steps is Suncorp taking to prepare its workforce for AI integration?

A:

Suncorp is equipping thousands of employees with AI training through hackathons, formal education sessions, and reskilling programs. This extensive training initiative is part of Suncorp’s strategy to cultivate a more AI-aware workforce and promote a culture of innovation throughout the organization.

Q: What function does Microsoft Copilot serve in Suncorp’s technology transformation?

A:

Microsoft Copilot is being used across Suncorp’s SaaS platforms to drive automation and optimize operations. This AI tool is integral to Suncorp’s comprehensive strategy to incorporate advanced technologies and enhance operational efficiency.

Q: In what ways is Suncorp enhancing its customer service using AI?

A:

Suncorp is modernizing its contact centre platform with AI capabilities to improve customer interactions. The new cloud-based infrastructure will succeed the existing Genesys system and facilitate smoother, AI-enabled customer service encounters.

Identifying Security Weaknesses in Microsoft 365: Is Your Business Protected?

As companies swiftly transitioned to remote and hybrid work models, many hurriedly implemented Microsoft 365. This expedited shift has rendered some organisations susceptible to security threats, as their configurations may harbor concealed vulnerabilities due to errors or negligence. With the rise in attacks on cloud platforms, it is imperative for organisations to reevaluate and enhance their Microsoft 365 security framework to prevent becoming another target for cybercriminals.

Quick Overview

• Microsoft 365 installations frequently have security vulnerabilities due to rushed deployments.
• Gartner forecasts that the majority of cloud security incidents will result from configuration mistakes.
• Default security configurations in Microsoft 365 may not fit all organisations’ needs.
• Regular security evaluations and vigilance are crucial for sustaining a secure environment.
• Organisations should focus on significant vulnerabilities and consistently enhance their security posture.

The Consequences of Rapid Microsoft 365 Implementations on Security

The swift adoption of Microsoft 365 during the pandemic and the transition to remote work put security teams under tremendous strain. In the rush to implement cloud-based solutions, many organisations neglected critical security settings. Gartner indicates that almost all cloud security failures are likely to arise from customer-side configuration mistakes, not from inherent issues in the cloud services themselves.

For instance, a certain organisation incorrectly set up multi-factor authentication (MFA) policies backward, permitting users from unauthorized countries to evade MFA while enforcing it on approved locations. Such misconfigurations can easily escape notice during hurried deployments, exposing the organisation to cyber threats.

Why Conventional Security Strategies Are Ineffective Today

Those days are over when corporate firewalls could adequately secure an organisation’s systems. The contemporary workplace, heavily reliant on cloud services such as Microsoft 365, has broadened the attack surface, rendering traditional security methods outdated. This evolution necessitates a complete reevaluation of security approaches by organisations.

Security for cloud environments, especially Microsoft 365, is not a one-off task. As the threat landscape constantly changes, organisations must embrace an ongoing strategy for fortifying their systems and safeguarding their digital assets. This entails keeping abreast of the latest security tools, policies, and best practices.

A Three-Step Method for Securing Microsoft 365

Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Security Landscape

The first step in enhancing Microsoft 365 security is to evaluate the existing configuration and risk landscape. Without a clear grasp of your setup and the associated threats, it’s impossible to allocate resources wisely. Nonetheless, the vast array of settings in Microsoft 365 can make this evaluation daunting for security teams.

To facilitate this, organisations can either leverage advanced security tools or collaborate with specialists who comprehend the complexities of Microsoft 365 security. By doing this, they can pinpoint potential vulnerabilities prior to exploitation.

Step 2: Focus on and Address Urgent Issues

After the evaluation, the subsequent step is to focus on the issues based on their severity and the ease of remediation. While the assessment may reveal numerous gaps, it’s crucial to prioritize the most pressing vulnerabilities to avert substantial security breaches.

Step 3: Ongoing Monitoring and Enhancement

Security is a continuous endeavor. Organisations must consistently monitor their Microsoft 365 environment for emerging vulnerabilities and configuration changes. Regular reviews are vital to ensuring that security measures remain effective and in sync with business needs.

For instance, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services in Western Australia necessitates strong data accessibility to sustain operations. Their security goals must balance operational requirements and protective measures, underlining the importance of constant watchfulness and adaptation.

Enhancing Security through Regular Audits

Frequent security audits offer dual advantages: they assist organisations in identifying and rectifying security gaps, while simultaneously revealing untapped functionalities within Microsoft 365 that can boost operational efficiency. The return on investment (ROI) from these evaluations frequently surpasses their cost, establishing them as a potent resource for both security and business advancement.

Take Action Now to Secure Your Microsoft 365 Framework

By employing a proactive approach to Microsoft 365 security, organisations can markedly decrease risks. This includes regular evaluations, ongoing improvements, and utilizing the appropriate mix of tools and expertise. As attackers continually adapt their strategies, organisations must remain vigilant by frequently reassessing their security posture and rectifying any weaknesses.

The swift deployment of Microsoft 365 has introduced new security challenges. Through thorough assessments and effective resource prioritization, organisations can mitigate risks and safely advance their business objectives.

Conclusion

As organisations increasingly depend on Microsoft 365, it’s vital to acknowledge the potential security weaknesses that can emerge from hurried deployments and configuration errors. By implementing a proactive strategy that incorporates regular assessments, prioritization of urgent issues, and continuous oversight, organisations can significantly lessen security risks. Transitioning to cloud-based setups demands an adjustment in security strategies, and businesses that resist adapting may find themselves exposed to cyber threats.

Q: Why are failures in cloud security prevalent?

A: Gartner anticipates that almost all cloud security failures will arise from configuration errors committed by customers. Many organisations expedite their deployments, leading to misconfigured or default settings, which create security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers.

Q: How can misconfigurations in Microsoft 365 impact my organisation?

A: Misconfigurations, such as erroneous MFA arrangements, can render your organisation open to unauthorized access. This scenario can result in data breaches, financial setbacks, and damage to your reputation if cybercriminals exploit these security vulnerabilities.

Q: What is the optimal approach to secure Microsoft 365?

A: Securing Microsoft 365 necessitates a three-step strategy: evaluate your current security posture, focus on and address urgent concerns, and maintain ongoing vigilance for new vulnerabilities. Frequent audits and expert assistance can help ensure your environment is consistently secure.

Q: How frequently should I reassess my Microsoft 365 security configurations?

A: Continuous monitoring is crucial, but formal evaluations should be conducted regularly, ideally annually, or when substantial modifications are made to your environment. This practice will help you remain ahead of emerging threats and ensure your security settings continue to be optimal.

Q: Can regular audits enhance ROI?

A: Indeed, consistent security audits not only bolster security but also reveal hidden functionalities within Microsoft 365 that can improve operational efficiency. The ROI from these audits often outstrips the initial investment.

Q: Which tools or partners should I utilise to secure Microsoft 365?

A: Employing advanced security tools specifically created for Microsoft 365 or collaborating with experts who specialize in cloud security can aid in identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring your environment is correctly configured and continuously monitored.

Defence Terminates Multi-Billion Dollar GEO Satellite Communications Initiative

In a notable change in its strategy regarding satellite communications, the Australian Defence Department has terminated a multi-billion dollar initiative for a geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite system that was in development by Lockheed Martin. This decision signifies a shift from the initial plan and underscores the defence force’s necessity to adjust to swiftly evolving space technologies and emerging threats.

Summary

• Australia has terminated its GEO satellite communications initiative with Lockheed Martin.
• The endeavor, designated JP9102, aimed to provide Australia’s first sovereign-controlled satellite communication system.
• Technological advancements in satellite capabilities and changing threats prompted a project reassessment.
• Defence will now concentrate on a multi-orbit satellite solution to bolster resilience for the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
• The current satellite communications infrastructure will still address immediate requirements.

Reasons Behind Australia’s Cancellation of the GEO Satellite Communications Initiative

Lockheed Martin, one of the globe’s leading aerospace and defence firms, was chosen last year as the preferred collaborator for the JP9102 project. The project aimed to establish a sovereign-controlled satellite communication system based on geostationary earth orbit (GEO) technology, representing a significant advancement in Australia’s space capabilities.

Nonetheless, the Australian Department of Defence has opted to discontinue the project. In a recent announcement, Defence highlighted substantial advancements in satellite communications and an evolving threat landscape as primary factors for the change in direction. The swift pace of technological progress in space, combined with rising threats, suggested that the singular orbit, GEO-based solution was no longer compatible with the strategic needs of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Redirecting Attention to a Multi-Orbit Satellite Solution

Instead of the previously planned GEO satellite system, Defence is set to concentrate on creating a multi-orbit satellite communication capability. This approach is anticipated to enhance resilience and improve the operational adaptability of the ADF. Rather than depending on a single geostationary satellite, a multi-orbit system would utilize low earth orbit (LEO), medium earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary earth orbit satellites to construct a more solid and versatile communication network.

This strategy is increasingly prevalent in the global defence arena, as it ensures better redundancy. Should one satellite in a specific orbit be compromised, others in different orbits can still maintain coverage. Multi-orbit systems also possess superior capabilities to manage the increasing intricacies of contemporary space-based threats, including cyber-attacks, jamming, and anti-satellite defenses.

What Lies Ahead for Australia’s Defence Space Strategy?

The cancellation of the JP9102 initiative does not create a gap in Australia’s space capabilities. Defence has confirmed that its current satellite communication systems are adequate for meeting immediate operational demands. This encompasses collaboration with global partners and utilizing existing commercial satellite infrastructure as needed.

Looking ahead, Defence will emphasize the development of new satellite capabilities that are more aligned with its evolving strategic requirements. This may involve greater partnership with allies such as the United States, which is also making substantial investments in multi-orbit satellite systems. The decision to terminate the project aligns with a wider trend among defence agencies worldwide, which are shifting focus towards more flexible, scalable, and resilient space-based communication solutions.

Conclusion

Australia’s Defence Department has ended a multi-billion dollar geostationary earth orbit satellite communications initiative, known as JP9102, which was being developed in collaboration with Lockheed Martin. The decision was motivated by advancements in space technology and the emergence of new threats, leading to a reevaluation of the project’s strategic significance. Rather than pursuing a single orbit system, Defence will now direct efforts towards establishing a multi-orbit satellite communication capability to enhance resilience and flexibility for the Australian Defence Force.

Q&A

Q: What was the JP9102 project?

A:

The JP9102 project was an effort to create Australia’s first sovereign-controlled satellite communication system, utilizing geostationary earth orbit (GEO) technology. Lockheed Martin was chosen as the preferred partner for this project.

Q: Why was the GEO satellite communications project cancelled?

A:

The project was cancelled due to technological advancements in satellite communications and the changing space threat landscape. Defence concluded that a single orbit GEO-based system failed to meet the strategic priorities of the Australian Defence Force, prompting a transition towards a more resilient, multi-orbit satellite framework.

Q: What is a multi-orbit satellite communication system?

A:

A multi-orbit satellite communication system integrates satellites from various orbits, such as low earth orbit (LEO), medium earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary earth orbit (GEO). This configuration offers enhanced resilience and flexibility, allowing for backup in case one satellite or orbit experiences issues.

Q: What will the Australian Defence Force prioritize now?

A:

Defence will focus on developing a multi-orbit satellite communication capability, which will bolster the ADF’s communication systems’ resilience by utilizing satellites across different orbits to ensure more stable and secure networks.

Q: How will the cancellation of JP9102 affect Australia’s satellite communication abilities?

A:

The cancellation of JP9102 will not affect Australia’s current satellite communication abilities. Defence has indicated that its existing systems are adequate to fulfill current operational needs. The emphasis will now shift towards creating future-proof solutions synchronized with strategic goals.

Q: Will Australia cooperate with other countries on its new satellite strategy?

A:

While specific details are yet to be announced, it is probable that Australia will maintain collaboration with international allies, including the United States, which is also pursuing multi-orbit satellite systems. International cooperation is anticipated to significantly enhance Australia’s space capabilities.

Government Departments to Retrieve $49M Tech Initiative via Internal Delivery Strategy

Federal Departments to Transition Tech Services In-House

The Australian federal government is making decisive moves to lessen its dependency on consultants and contractors by transitioning $49 million worth of technological services back in-house. This action is part of a larger campaign to reclaim “core activities” that have been outsourced over time, spearheaded by Finance Minister Katy Gallagher.

Strategic Commissioning Framework: Reducing Dependency on Contractors

The Australian Public Service (APS) has faced criticism for its substantial dependence on outside contractors, particularly in the IT and digital domains. In response, Gallagher has launched the Strategic Commissioning Framework, which aims to reduce this reliance and bolster the internal capacities of federal departments.

Recent figures indicate that $527 million worth of core services will be reintegrated into 104 agencies throughout the 2024-25 timeframe. Of this total, ICT and digital services will represent 22%, with Defence handling its own considerable reductions.

Effects on the Defence Department

The Defence Department has been a significant participant in Australia’s outsourcing trend, especially regarding technology services. However, it has already begun to lessen its contractor reliance, notably reducing its staff-to-contractor ratio from 80:20 to 60:40, as noted by Defence CIO Chris Crozier. This change is part of a wider transformation of the department’s tech operations, marking an important advance in building internal capabilities.

Financially, Defence has taken on the largest cut in outsourcing, with a $308 million reduction. However, specifics about which particular tech services will be reintroduced in-house remain undisclosed.

Australian Taxation Office’s Plans for Reducing Outsourcing

Another crucial participant in this initiative is the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), which has pledged to decrease its IT outsourcing expenses by $31.9 million in 2024-25. The ATO has historically relied heavily on external contractors for IT, service provision, and data analytics but is now moving toward a more autonomous approach.

Challenges of Reintegrating Tech Services

While the government’s plan to reclaim outsourced services may appear simple, agencies have reported facing difficulties when bringing certain tech services in-house. The Strategic Commissioning Framework report revealed that 67 departments and agencies recognised ICT and digital services as “core systems,” with 55 still outsourcing at least part of these services.

Many agencies highlighted issues with attracting and keeping the skilled personnel needed to oversee these intricate systems, especially considering the competitive tech landscape. Moreover, transitioning from a contractor-centric system to in-house services necessitates not only technical skill but also considerable organizational adjustments.

Finance Minister Katy Gallagher’s Objectives

Since her appointment in 2022, Katy Gallagher has been firm in her commitment to reducing Australia’s reliance on consultants and contractors. Her vision is to reform the APS, enhancing its ability to provide critical services directly to Australians without needing outside assistance.

“When entering government, we outlined an ambitious agenda to reform the APS, and to enhance capabilities, ensuring the APS can deliver the services Australians expect,” Gallagher asserted.

Conclusion

The Australian government’s choice to bring back $49 million in technology services in-house forms part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing dependence on external contractors and consultants. This initiative, driven by Finance Minister Katy Gallagher, seeks to reclaim $527 million of “core activities” across 104 agencies during the fiscal year 2024-25. With ICT and digital services representing 22% of this reclaimed workload, the transition signifies a pivotal move towards fortifying the internal capabilities of the Australian Public Service (APS). Notably, both the Defence Department and the ATO are central figures in this transition, implementing significant cuts to their outsourcing expenses. However, challenges remain, especially in terms of attracting and retaining tech expertise.

FAQ

Q: What prompts the Australian government to internally manage tech services?

A:

The government seeks to diminish reliance on external contractors and consultants, mainly in ICT and digital services, with the goal of fortifying federal agencies’ internal capabilities, enabling them to provide essential services directly to Australians.

Q: What is the purpose of the Strategic Commissioning Framework?

A:

The Strategic Commissioning Framework is a policy set forth by Finance Minister Katy Gallagher geared towards phasing out contractor and consultant usage within the Australian Public Service (APS). It aims to reclaim core work that has been outsourced, particularly in the ICT and digital fields.

Q: What role does the Defence Department play in this transition?

A:

The Defence Department has been among the largest users of external contractors, particularly in tech services. Nonetheless, it has cut its staff-to-contractor ratio from 80:20 to 60:40 and is also making cuts of $308 million in outsourced services, although the specific services being brought back in-house have not been made clear.

Q: How much is the Australian Taxation Office reducing its outsourcing expenses?

A:

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is targeting a reduction of $31.9 million in IT outsourcing costs for service delivery and data analytics in the fiscal year 2024-25.

Q: What challenges do agencies encounter when transitioning tech services in-house?

A:

Agencies are experiencing difficulties in sourcing and retaining the talent required to manage complex ICT and digital systems. The transition from a contractor-centric model to internal services also demands significant organizational transformations.

Q: What are the financial implications of this initiative?

A:

Overall, the government intends to reintroduce $527 million worth of core services by 2024-25. This includes $49 million in tech services, with ICT and digital services making up 22% of the reclaimed workload, apart from Defence.

Q: How does this initiative affect the wider Australian Public Service (APS)?

A:

This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to reform the APS by curtailing its reliance on external contractors and consultants. By fostering internal capabilities, the government aims to develop a more effective and self-sufficient public service that can better serve the needs of Australians.