Category: Australia Tech News

Brief Overview

• A trial of Microsoft 365 Copilot by the Australian Treasury indicates that a mid-tier government employee requires only 13 minutes of weekly productivity savings to warrant the licensing expense.
• The Australian Centre for Evaluation’s (ACE) internal review contrasts with the broader appraisal of Copilot’s benefits from the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA).
• Even though the trial pointed to likely time savings, it did not provide specific measurements, resulting in ambiguity surrounding Copilot’s overall impact.
• Less experienced employees recognized the potential for gaining more time for skill enhancement and higher-level tasks.
• Obstacles included system limitations, security issues, and insufficient training resources, all of which impeded both adoption and performance.
• The DTA opted against further extensive government trials of generative AI, allowing separate agencies to perform their own assessments.

Assessing Microsoft 365 Copilot within the Australian Public Sector

Microsoft 365 Copilot, the AI-driven tool aimed at boosting productivity, has faced scrutiny after a 14-week examination by the Australian Treasury. The findings illuminated some possible advantages but also brought forth concerns related to its efficacy, cost justification, and wider adoption throughout government entities.

Government Employees Only Require 13 Minutes of Efficiency Gains

The Treasury’s internal analysis by the Australian Centre for Evaluation (ACE) determined that an APS6-level public servant—whose salary ranges from $94,300 to $114,243 per year—only needs to save 13 minutes weekly on administrative duties to make the Copilot licence financially justifiable. While this establishes a seemingly modest target for efficiency improvements, the analysis did not provide concrete time savings data.

Are These Savings Achievable?

ACE considered the 13-minute productivity gain “likely,” but the lack of solid evidence makes it challenging to firmly back this assertion. In a separate review, the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) proposed a significantly more positive average time saving of one hour daily. If this claim holds true, it would imply that Copilot could easily justify its cost.

Advantages of Copilot for Junior Employees

A notable insight from the trial was the potential for junior employees to gain from AI-assisted support. The analysis indicated that Copilot facilitated the reduction of time spent on routine administrative tasks, enabling junior personnel to concentrate on skill development and more high-priority work such as creating policy briefs or conducting data analysis.

Long-Term Consequences

The results imply that AI tools like Copilot might significantly enhance professional growth for junior employees. By managing repetitive administrative work, AI assistants could enable newcomers to engage in more significant tasks sooner in their careers.

Challenges in Quantifying Productivity Improvements

A major hurdle in the evaluation was the difficulty of assessing Copilot’s effects. Although many participants reported experiencing efficiency gains, their managers often did not perceive a marked difference. This indicates that while AI may assist individuals, it doesn’t necessarily result in overarching organisational enhancements.

Incomplete AI Work Outputs

Another issue was that Copilot frequently did not produce fully finished work, necessitating human involvement for completion. Consequently, it became challenging to ascertain if the AI actually conserved time or merely shifted workload from one phase of a task to another.

Limitations in Security and Training

The Treasury’s strict security and privacy protocols curtailed Copilot’s capabilities, rendering it less productive than unrestricted AI tools available outside the governmental framework. Furthermore, employees received minimal training on how to effectively utilize Copilot, further diminishing its potential effectiveness.

Lost Opportunities Due to Inadequate Resources

The absence of dedicated onboarding and educational resources meant that numerous participants were not adequately prepared to fully exploit Copilot’s potential. A more organized rollout coupled with comprehensive training could have yielded clearer perspectives on its real value.

The Future of AI in Public Sector

As of early 2025, the Digital Transformation Agency has no intention of initiating any further comprehensive government-wide AI trials. Instead, individual agencies will be tasked with conducting their own evaluations to ascertain whether AI tools like Copilot are worthwhile investments.

Is Custom AI Development an Option?

The government is not currently investigating a specialized, all-encompassing AI model. However, agencies may decide to procure or create tailored AI solutions to satisfy their unique requirements.

Conclusion

The Australian Treasury’s investigation into Microsoft 365 Copilot demonstrated potential but also underscored various challenges related to implementation, training, and assessing efficiency gains. While the AI tool could enable junior employees to prioritize skill growth, the broader organizational advantages remain uncertain. With the DTA stepping back from comprehensive government trials, the decision to adopt Copilot and similar tools now rests with individual agencies.

Q&A Session

Q: What exactly is Microsoft 365 Copilot?

A:

Microsoft 365 Copilot is an AI-supported assistant integrated within Microsoft’s productivity tool suite, crafted to automate and optimize administrative functions.

Q: How much productivity would an APS6 employee need to save for Copilot to be financially viable?

A:

The Treasury’s review states that an APS6 employee needs to save around 13 minutes weekly on lower-value tasks to make the cost of a Copilot licence justifiable.

Q: Did the trial demonstrate that Copilot enhances productivity?

A:

The trial suggested that productivity enhancements were “likely” but lacked definitive data to measure time savings accurately.

Q: Which group benefits the most from Copilot’s use?

A:

Junior staff seemed to gain the most, as Copilot allowed them to redirect time towards higher-value projects and professional growth.

Q: What primary challenges did implementing Copilot entail?

A:

Significant challenges encompassed security limitations, insufficient training, and obstacles in quantifying its effect on productivity.

Q: Will the Australian government proceed with AI trials in the future?

A:

As of early 2025, the Digital Transformation Agency does not plan to continue its extensive government AI trials, permitting individual agencies to conduct their evaluations.

Q: Is there a possibility for the government to develop its AI model?

A:

Currently, there is no exploration of a specialized generative AI model by the government, although individual agencies might consider creating or acquiring specific AI solutions.

Quick Insight: Key Cybersecurity Guidelines for Safe Gaming

• Safer Internet Day emphasizes the significance of online safety for youthful gamers.
• 89% of children between the ages of 8-17 in Australia and New Zealand engage in online gaming.
• 40% of young players have engaged with strangers online, which introduces potential dangers.
• Common online hazards encompass bullying, hate speech, and unauthorized purchases.
• Xbox and Minecraft present five vital cybersecurity recommendations for families.
• Parental controls, management of screen time, and awareness of online interactions are essential.
• Parents should take an active role in their children’s gaming journey to ensure their safety.

Cybersecurity in Gaming: Its Importance

As online gaming continues to grow, safeguarding young players has become increasingly important. Recent data indicates that 89% of children aged 8-17 in Australia and New Zealand are active in online gaming, with nearly half reporting negative experiences like bullying and hate speech. With gaming evolving into a communal activity, the dangers associated with interacting with strangers are heightened, making cybersecurity a vital concern for parents and guardians.

Five Crucial Cybersecurity Suggestions from Xbox and Minecraft

For families to safely navigate the online landscape, Xbox and Minecraft have highlighted five essential cybersecurity guidelines that all parents should be aware of.

1. Comprehend Online Interactions

A significant worry in the realm of online gaming is interaction with unknown individuals. Parents ought to inform their children about the importance of not disclosing personal details, such as real names, addresses, or school information. Minecraft includes built-in reporting tools for flagging inappropriate conduct, and chat configurations can be modified to limit who can reach out to your child.

2. Create a Child Account

By utilizing the Xbox Family Settings App, parents can establish child accounts with tailored restrictions. This comprises setting content filters suitable for their age, activating weekly activity reports, and mandating approval for in-game purchases. Such tools allow for a more secure gaming experience while enabling parents to oversee their child’s activities.

3. Be Aware of In-Game Purchases

A multitude of games, including Minecraft, provide in-game acquisitions using virtual currency. Parents should educate their children on distinguishing between virtual and real money to avert unintended expenditures. Establishing spending ceilings and requiring parental consent for purchases can aid in effectively managing in-game transactions.

4. Manage Screen Time

Excessive time spent on screens can influence a child’s health and growth. Parents can leverage the Xbox Family Settings App to impose playtime limits, ensuring that gaming doesn’t disrupt school obligations, sleep, or outdoor pursuits. Promoting regular breaks and engaging in non-screen family activities can support a healthier equilibrium.

5. Foster a Secure Online Environment

Encouraging children to play on private servers with friends they recognize from real life can greatly diminish exposure to online risks. Minecraft provides moderation tools to assist in managing player interactions, and parents may organize supervised gaming sessions to cultivate a safer atmosphere.

Conclusion

Gaming plays a vital role in the lives of many children, yet it carries inherent risks. By implementing the cybersecurity recommendations from Xbox and Minecraft, parents can construct a more secure digital space for their children. Establishing child accounts, overseeing in-game acquisitions, balancing screen time, and ensuring safe interactions are all pivotal to a favorable gaming experience.

Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cybersecurity in Gaming

Q: Why is safeguarding online gaming essential for children?

A:

Online gaming presents children with potential dangers like cyberbullying, unsuitable content, and contact with strangers. Enforcing safety measures guarantees a positive experience while reducing these perils.

Q: How can I keep track of my child’s gaming activity?

A:

By utilizing resources such as the Xbox Family Settings App, parents can monitor playtime, establish content limitations, and receive weekly updates on their child’s gaming behavior.

Q: What are the risks associated with in-game purchases?

A:

A number of games incorporate microtransactions that could lead to unforeseen costs. Setting spending limits and necessitating parental consent assists in responsibly handling in-game purchases.

Q: How can I educate my child to engage safely online?

A:

Promote open discussions about online engagements, inform them about privacy settings, and utilize moderation tools to oversee who they can connect with in-game.

Q: What are effective strategies for managing my child’s screen time?

A:

Create a daily timetable that allocates time for homework, outdoor activities, and gaming interruptions. Parental control applications can automatically enforce screen time restrictions.

Q: How can I ensure my child plays exclusively with friends?

A:

Establishing private servers or friend-only lobbies in games like Minecraft ensures that your child interacts solely with familiar and trusted individuals.

Q: What should I do if my child faces online bullying?

A:

Encourage your child to report any harmful behavior via in-game reporting features, block the offending users, and discuss the matter to provide emotional support.

Quick Overview

• TPG Telecom faced a widespread service disruption due to a power outage at its Sydney data centre.
• This failure was caused by severe weather conditions resulting in flash floods and power interruptions.
• Customers across Australia, especially in NSW and the ACT, reported issues with connectivity.
• Backup power systems at the impacted data centre also malfunctioned, worsening the situation.
• Most services were restored for customers, with TPG recommending users to restart their devices.
• NBN Co confirmed that it had no role in the outage.
• The incident underscores the dangers posed by extreme weather to data centre functionality.

TPG Telecom Experiences Significant Data Centre Failure

On Monday evening, TPG Telecom encountered a major service disruption following a power outage that affected one of its primary data centres in Sydney. The crisis led to widespread connectivity problems for customers throughout Australia, with NSW and the ACT suffering the worst impacts.

Outage Causes

The disruption resulted from a combination of mains power failure and backup generator failure at the AAPT data centre located in Forest Lodge, Sydney. This occurred in the aftermath of a severe storm that caused flash flooding and power outages across the area.

TPG Telecom addressed the issue in a Facebook post, stating, “A storm-related power outage and generator malfunction at our Sydney data centre interrupted broadband services for our customers.”

Impact on Customers and TPG’s Reaction

The service disruption began at approximately 5:30pm AEDT, impacting both apartment and business consumers. Numerous users took to social platforms to voice their dissatisfaction with the loss of connectivity.

TPG Telecom subsequently confirmed in another update that services had been restored for the “vast majority” of users. However, the company recommended that those still facing problems reboot their modems and routers.

Clarifications from NBN Co

As customers sought clarity, NBN Co was compelled to deny any involvement in the outage. The company urged affected individuals to get updates from TPG Telecom instead.

During the incident, NBN Co’s network status page also encountered accessibility challenges due to a spike in traffic, leading to further confusion among users.

Significance for Infrastructure Resilience

This incident illustrates the susceptibility of telecommunications infrastructure to extreme weather conditions. Data centres are structured to cope with power outages using backup generators, yet the failure of both primary and secondary power sources raises significant concerns regarding reliability.

As climate change escalates the frequency and severity of weather events, telecom companies may need to reevaluate their disaster recovery strategies to ensure consistent service delivery.

Conclusion

TPG Telecom’s extensive service disruption due to a power failure at its Sydney data centre caused considerable issues for customers nationwide. The simultaneous failure of both mains power and backup generators intensified the circumstances, particularly affecting NSW and the ACT. Although services have since resumed, the event prompts discussions about infrastructure resilience and readiness for extreme weather situations.

Q&A: Important Questions Addressed

Q: What led to the TPG Telecom outage?

A:

The outage was instigated by a power failure at TPG Telecom’s AAPT data centre in Sydney. Severe storms caused flash flooding and power interruptions, resulting in both parts of the power system failing.

Q: How long was the outage?

A:

The disruption commenced around 5:30pm AEDT on Monday evening. Most services were reinstated by the following morning, although some customers needed to reboot their devices manually.

Q: Was NBN Co to blame for the outage?

A:

No, NBN Co was not responsible for the disruption. The issue was confined to the infrastructure of TPG Telecom’s data centre. However, NBN Co’s status page encountered high traffic levels, hindering some users from obtaining updates.

Q: What should customers do if they still have connectivity issues?

A:

TPG Telecom has encouraged customers to restart their modems and routers. If problems continue, users should reach out to the company’s support center for additional help.

Q: How can telecom firms prevent similar outages moving forward?

A:

To avert future outages, telecom providers should invest in more robust backup power solutions, enhance the maintenance of current infrastructure, and create contingency measures for extreme weather events.

Q: Are power failures frequent in data centres?

A:

While data centres are typically built with backup power provisions, failures can still arise due to severe weather, equipment failures, or insufficient upkeep. This incident underscores the necessity for redundancy and disaster readiness.

Q: Could this outage affect TPG Telecom’s reputation?

A:

While outages can occasionally be unavoidable, the breakdown of backup systems may create worries among customers. How TPG Telecom tackles these issues and fortifies infrastructure resilience will shape long-term customer confidence.

Q: Might climate change heighten the likelihood of future outages?

A:

Yes, climate change is driving an increase in both the frequency and severity of weather phenomena, which raises the risk of power failures and infrastructural deterioration. Telecom companies need to adapt to these evolving conditions to ensure reliable services.

Brief Overview

• Queensland and Western Australia have prohibited DeepSeek on government devices.
• The prohibitions are in response to a federal directive expressing national security worries regarding the AI app created in China.
• DeepSeek usage has also been limited in New South Wales and South Australia.
• Other regions, including Tasmania, are currently examining their position.
• Concerns over DeepSeek’s origins and data management are major security issues.
• Large language AI models like ChatGPT remain unaffected by these prohibitions.

States in Australia Take Steps to Limit DeepSeek Due to Security Issues

Queensland and Western Australia Align with Federal Restrictions

Queensland and Western Australia have joined the ranks of Australian states banning DeepSeek, an AI application developed in China, from use on government devices. This move is in accordance with a directive from the federal government prohibiting public servants from using DeepSeek over national security concerns.

The Queensland government has officially banned the application on all government-supplied ICT services, which includes smartphones, laptops, tablets, and desktops. Agencies are tasked with uninstalling existing software and ensuring no future access through fleet management and internet filtering measures.

Western Australia’s Office of Digital Government has similarly instituted a cybersecurity directive to block DeepSeek from all government devices, in line with recommendations from the Department of Home Affairs.

New South Wales and South Australia Quick to Enforce the Ban

New South Wales has taken the lead as the first state to impose restrictions on DeepSeek, highlighting worries about emerging technologies and their potential risks. Following this, South Australia has also enacted measures to restrict access within government networks and has instructed public servants to remove the software from their devices.

What Concerns Do Australian Authorities Have About DeepSeek?

DeepSeek, particularly its AI assistant and DeepSeek-V3 model, has attracted global attention since its launch. However, its Chinese origins and data collection practices have raised alarms among Australian officials.

The primary concern revolves around the potential dangers linked to foreign-developed AI applications, such as data privacy issues, security weaknesses, and risks of foreign surveillance. These apprehensions have led both state and federal governments to adopt proactive measures.

Some Australian States Still Evaluating Their Position

While a number of states have promptly banned DeepSeek, others are in the process of reviewing their positions. Tasmania, for instance, has indicated it is analyzing security guidance prior to reaching a conclusive decision. Minister for Innovation, Science, and the Digital Economy Madeleine Ogilvie confirmed that any integration of AI software in Tasmania will adhere to a risk-based approach as detailed in its protective security policy framework.

Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and the Northern Territory have not yet released any formal bans on DeepSeek.

ChatGPT and Similar AI Models Not Impacted

Interestingly, the restrictions placed on DeepSeek do not apply to other large-language AI models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This indicates that Australian officials are specifically wary of DeepSeek’s data practices and its connections to China, rather than AI technology as a whole.

Conclusion

An increasing number of Australian states are banning DeepSeek from government devices due to national security issues. Queensland and Western Australia are the latest to implement these restrictions, following New South Wales and South Australia. The concerns regarding DeepSeek are centered on its origins in China and its data collection practices, which governments fear may present cybersecurity hazards. Meanwhile, states like Tasmania are still deciding on their approach, while AI models like ChatGPT remain unaffected.

Questions and Answers

Q: What is the reason for the DeepSeek bans in various Australian states?

A:

DeepSeek is banned due to worries about its Chinese origins and data collection policies that could potentially pose cybersecurity threats. Australian governments are implementing precautionary actions to safeguard sensitive data.

Q: Which states in Australia have implemented bans on DeepSeek?

A:

Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales, and South Australia have enacted bans on DeepSeek across government devices, while a few states, like Tasmania, are still reviewing their positions.

Q: Is DeepSeek restricted for general public use within Australia?

A:

No, the current bans apply solely to government devices and networks. The public retains access to and can utilize DeepSeek.

Q: How do DeepSeek and ChatGPT differ?

A:

Both DeepSeek and ChatGPT are AI-driven language models, but DeepSeek has raised concerns because of its Chinese development and data collection practices. ChatGPT, created by OpenAI in the United States, isn’t subject to the same restrictions.

Q: Could other Australian states impose bans on DeepSeek in the future?

A:

It is a possibility. Some regions, including Tasmania, are carefully considering security concerns prior to making final decisions.

Q: Are businesses in Australia permitted to use DeepSeek?

A:

Yes, private companies and individuals are allowed to use DeepSeek unless further specific restrictions are enacted.

Q: How are Australian authorities enforcing the ban on DeepSeek?

A:

Governments are employing fleet management tools and internet filtering systems to block the access, installation, and use of DeepSeek on devices provided by the government.

Q: Might other AI applications face similar restrictions?

A:

That depends on security evaluations. Should an AI application be assessed as a risk to national security, it may encounter similar limitations in the future.

WhatsApp Confronts Spyware Misconduct Amid Targeting Claims

Summary

• WhatsApp accuses Israeli spyware company Paragon Solutions of targeting approximately 90 users across more than two dozen nations.
• Among the victims are journalists and civil society members, subjected to harmful zero-click hacks.
• WhatsApp has sent a cease-and-desist notice and directed victims to Citizen Lab for additional assistance.
• Paragon positions itself as an ethical spyware provider but is under fire for alleged exploitation.
• This situation underscores escalating worries about the unregulated spread of commercial spyware worldwide.

WhatsApp Opposes Spyware Misuse

Meta-owned WhatsApp has accused the Israeli spyware firm Paragon Solutions of breaching its user security. As reported by a company representative, roughly 90 individuals from over 24 countries were targeted, including journalists and civil society figures, through what has been termed a “zero-click hack.” These types of attacks necessitate no user interaction, rendering them particularly dangerous and difficult to detect.

In response to the breach, WhatsApp issued a cease-and-desist letter to Paragon and reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding user privacy. The platform has also referred affected individuals to Citizen Lab, a Canadian oversight organization, for further scrutiny and assistance.

Understanding Zero-Click Hacks

Zero-click hacks represent a category of cyberattacks that take advantage of software vulnerabilities to breach devices without the user’s awareness or involvement. Victims may be targeted through harmful documents or links that activate automatically upon reception. These attacks are particularly hazardous due to their minimal trace, complicating efforts for detection and prevention.

WhatsApp’s identification of such an advanced attack emphasizes the increasing risks posed by commercial spyware, which continues to develop and expand globally.

The Controversial Role of Spyware in Cybersecurity

Companies like Paragon Solutions produce surveillance tools that they assert are intended to fight crime and strengthen national security. However, these tools have frequently been discovered on the devices of journalists, activists, opposition leaders, and even government officials, raising ethical questions regarding their use and the potential for abuse.

Recently acquired by Florida investment group AE Industrial Partners, Paragon promotes itself as a responsible player in the spyware market, claiming to offer its tools solely to governments in stable democracies. However, the recent allegations from WhatsApp cast doubt on its claims of providing “ethically based tools.”

Reactions from Advocacy Organizations

Organizations like Access Now have condemned the commercial spyware industry, pointing out that these abuses represent not isolated incidents but rather inherent issues within the sector. Natalia Krapiva, a senior tech-legal advisor at Access Now, noted that Paragon’s image as a “better spyware company” does not shield it from scrutiny, especially following WhatsApp’s disclosures.

Citizen Lab, assisting WhatsApp in scrutinizing the attacks, has also highlighted the dangers associated with the unregulated expansion of spyware. Their ongoing research aims to illuminate how such tools are wielded against at-risk populations and democratic figures.

Key Takeaways

WhatsApp’s accusations against Paragon Solutions shed light on the intensifying challenges posed by the commercial spyware sector. While companies like Paragon assert they operate within ethical frameworks, incidents such as these raise profound concerns about the misuse of surveillance technologies and the vulnerability of private communications. As conversations surrounding spyware regulation escalate, there is an urgent demand for enhanced accountability and transparency.

Q: What constitutes a zero-click hack, and what are its dangers?

A: A zero-click hack is a cyber intrusion that exploits software flaws to access a device without any user interaction. Its danger lies in its stealthy nature, making it hard to detect, and it can compromise sensitive information without the victim’s awareness.

Q: Who were the individuals targeted in the Paragon spyware incident?

A: WhatsApp indicated that around 90 individuals, including journalists and members of civil society across over two dozen countries, were targeted. Specific identities have not been revealed.

Q: What measures has WhatsApp taken against Paragon Solutions?

A: WhatsApp has sent a cease-and-desist letter to Paragon Solutions, disrupted the hacking attempt, and referred impacted users to Citizen Lab for further support.

Q: How does Paragon Solutions defend its spyware products?

A: Paragon claims its surveillance tools are ethically crafted and sold exclusively to governments in stable democracies for purposes like crime prevention and national security. However, the recent allegations challenge this claim.

Q: What role does Citizen Lab serve in this scenario?

A: Citizen Lab is a Canadian cyber oversight organization that probes cyberattacks, particularly those involving spyware. They are aiding WhatsApp in investigating the attacks and offering support to the involved parties.

Q: Why is the commercial spyware sector fraught with controversy?

A: This sector is controversial as tools marketed for legitimate safety reasons have consistently been found on the devices of journalists, activists, and other susceptible groups, raising alarms about misuse and insufficient regulation.

Q: What implications does AE Industrial Partners’ acquisition of Paragon have?

A: The acquisition by AE Industrial Partners draws attention to the expanding market for spyware products and raises ethical questions regarding the responsibilities of investors in this area.

Honoring Innovation: Finalists Announced for the 2025 Benchmark Awards in Technology Leadership

The annual Benchmark Awards have revealed their finalists for 2025, featuring an extraordinary selection of IT leaders and initiatives that are revolutionizing Australian businesses, government, and society. These awards recognize innovation, aspiration, and the contributions made by outstanding technology leaders across multiple sectors.

Quick Overview: Major Highlights

• The 2025 Benchmark Awards honor exceptional IT leadership and transformative initiatives within Australia.
• Finalists consist of leaders from federal, state, and local governments, along with representatives from sectors such as finance, energy, education, and healthcare.
• The announcement of winners is scheduled for March 27, 2025, at Doltone House, Hyde Park, Sydney.
• Categories span various industries, acknowledging both individual accomplishments and team contributions.
• The awards aim to promote innovation and excellence within Australia’s technology sector.

What Are the Benchmark Awards?

The Benchmark Awards represent the top accolade in Australia for IT excellence, celebrating individuals and teams leading the charge in technology innovation and change. Conducted annually, these awards emphasize pioneering projects and leadership that provide tangible value to businesses, government entities, and communities across the nation.

Introducing the Finalists

Technology Leader in Federal Government

• Tristan Cox, Chief Digital Officer, Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission
• Chris Crozier, Chief Information Officer, Defence

Technology Leader in State Government

• Richard Hill, Chief Information Officer, Department for Infrastructure and Transport SA
• John Atkin, Commander, Digital Transformation & Reform, Northern Territory Police Force
• Sherrie Killiby, Executive Director Opal Next Generation, Transport for NSW

Technology Leader in Local Government

• Tom Gao, Chief Technology and Digital Services Officer, City of Sydney
• Dane Hamilton, Chief Information Officer, Shoalhaven City Council
• Dave Burns, Chief Information Officer, Sunshine Coast Council

Technology Leader in Finance

• Jemma Hakobyan, Head of Information Technology Australia, Clearstream
• Stevie-Ann Dovico, Chief Information Officer, Beyond Bank Australia
• Jennifer Kazangi, Head of Technology, Police Bank
• Vinay Lopes, Head of Technology, HSBC
• Sanjeev Gupta, Chief Information and Transformation Officer, HBF Health

The Significance of These Awards

The Benchmark Awards not only celebrate remarkable accomplishments but also motivate the larger technology community to innovate and pursue excellence. By highlighting success stories, these awards foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the embrace of best practices across different sectors.

Save the Date: Event Information

The 2025 Benchmark Awards winners will be revealed at a distinguished conference and gala dinner on March 27, 2025, at Doltone House, Hyde Park, Sydney. The event aims to gather Australia’s best minds in technology for a memorable evening of celebration and inspiration.

Conclusion

The 2025 Benchmark Awards underscore the critical influence of technology leaders in advancing Australia’s digital evolution. By acknowledging individuals and initiatives across various fields, these awards honor innovation, leadership, and the positive effects of technology on businesses and society. From government ventures to breakthroughs in education, energy, and health, the finalists exemplify the forefront of IT excellence in Australia.

Q&A: Important Inquiries Regarding the 2025 Benchmark Awards

Q: What are the Benchmark Awards?

A:

The Benchmark Awards are an annual event that acknowledges remarkable accomplishments in IT leadership and innovation throughout Australia. They celebrate both individuals and projects that have made significant contributions and transformations through technology.

Q: Who are the finalists for 2025?

A:

The finalists comprise IT leaders from diverse sectors, including government, finance, health, education, retail, and more. Prominent nominees include Tristan Cox from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and Fiona Rankin from TAFE NSW.

Q: When and where will the winners be announced?

A:

The winners will be announced on March 27, 2025, during a gala dinner held at Doltone House, Hyde Park, Sydney.

Q: How are finalists chosen?

A:

Finalists are selected based on their capacity to demonstrate innovation, measurable impact, and leadership in their specific areas. A panel of industry experts assesses nominations to identify the most deserving candidates.

Q: What categories are included in the awards?

A:

Categories range from Federal and State Government Leaders to sectors like Finance, Energy, Education, Health, and Not-for-Profit, encompassing a wide array of Australia’s technology landscape.

Q: Can the public attend the awards ceremony?

A:

Yes, tickets for the conference and gala dinner can be purchased, enabling attendees to connect with industry leaders and celebrate the achievements of the finalists.