Australia Tech News Archives

Quorum Employs AI to Provide Major Cyber Time Savings for Australian Companies

Matthew Miller on June 16, 2025

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Concise Overview

Quorum’s AI-powered solution is aiding Australian businesses in alleviating cybersecurity alert fatigue.
By leveraging Microsoft’s Security Copilot, companies decrease daily alerts from 300 to 35 actionable items.
AI instruments like Copilot can introduce data exposure risks if not adequately supervised.
Effective data governance and permission structures are critical for reducing AI-related risks.
Quorum’s customized AI solutions empower businesses to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses.

AI-Powered Cybersecurity Solutions

Australian organizations burdened by cybersecurity alerts are experiencing relief through Quorum’s AI-powered methodology. By incorporating Microsoft’s Security Copilot, Quorum assists businesses in reducing alert fatigue and honing in on actionable threats.

Quorum using AI for efficient cybersecurity solutions

Daniel Tracey, Quorum’s Principal Consultant for Cybersecurity, elaborated at the CyberSecure Summit in Sydney on how their partnership with Microsoft has facilitated the automation of alert responses. This innovation has significantly lowered the number of daily alerts necessitating human engagement from 300 to 35.

Handling “Impossible Travel” Alerts

The approach is especially beneficial for managing “impossible travel” alerts, which arise when employee logins from distant places raise security flags. With large teams traveling around the globe, manually verifying each alert was a cumbersome task.

“We employed Security Copilot to evaluate these alerts, determining if they represented actual threats. Most turned out to be false positives, enabling us to concentrate on real issues,” Tracey stated.

Recognizing AI Risks

While AI tools bolster cybersecurity, they also introduce risks, particularly regarding data exposure. Oscar Gonzalez, Microsoft’s SMB Cybersecurity Lead for ANZ, cautions against the risks of data leaks, both accidental and intentional, underscoring the significance of data governance.

“Establish a data classification scheme and proper permission levels to alleviate these risks,” Gonzalez recommended.

Case Study: AI in Practice

Gavin van Niekerk, Quorum’s Practice Manager for Cybersecurity, recounted how a Melbourne-based electrical wholesaler enhanced its security posture utilizing Quorum’s AI solutions. Initially lacking proactive monitoring, they now utilize Quorum’s SOC team to bolster data security without risking overexposure.

“They now use AI with confidence, understanding their security maturity and prepared to advance,” van Niekerk remarked.

Conclusion

Quorum’s AI-driven solutions considerably enhance cybersecurity by alleviating alert fatigue and prioritizing actionable threats. Nevertheless, organizations must stay alert to AI-related risks, particularly data exposure. Sound governance and a well-structured data security framework are vital for the safe utilization of AI technologies.

Q: What is Quorum’s AI-powered solution?

A: Quorum’s AI-driven solution utilizes Microsoft’s Security Copilot to automate and optimize the management of cybersecurity alerts, significantly decreasing the number of alerts that require human intervention.

Q: How does Quorum’s solution handle “impossible travel” alerts?

A: The solution employs Security Copilot to assess these alerts, frequently identifying them as false positives, thus enabling security teams to concentrate on real threats.

Q: What are the risks tied to using AI in cybersecurity?

A: Risks include potential data exposure and leaks that can happen either accidentally or maliciously. Effective data governance and permission frameworks can help lessen these risks.

Q: How can businesses reduce AI-related risks?

A: By instituting a solid data classification and governance framework, ensuring appropriate permission levels, and consistently reviewing their security posture.

Q: What was the result of Quorum’s involvement with the Melbourne-based wholesaler?

A: The wholesaler enhanced its data security posture, gaining assurance in utilizing AI tools without risking data exposure, and establishing a proactive monitoring system.

NSW Nationals Shift to Discard Net Zero and Withdraw from Paris Agreement

Nicholas Kinports on June 16, 2025

NSW Nationals Alter Their Position on Climate Policy

Quick Read

NSW Nationals opt to drop net zero emissions goal.
Party aims to retract from the Paris Agreement.
Worries regarding the economic effects of existing climate policies.
Possible political consequences within the Coalition.
Grassroots initiative emphasizes Australian priorities.

NSW Nationals’ Climate Policy Revision

In a significant development, the NSW Nationals have voted to relinquish their pledge to net zero emissions and support Australia’s pullout from the Paris Agreement. This determination was reached at their yearly conference in Coffs Harbour, mirroring a rising feeling among party members that existing climate frameworks do not adequately serve regional Australia.

Economic Issues Propel Policy Change

Supporters of the new path assert that the pursuit of net zero has heightened living expenses, affecting prices related to food, energy, and transportation. They argue that Australia’s pledge has yielded no discernible environmental advantages and that the nation’s rich resources should permit some of the lowest costs for food and energy in the world.

Consequences for Employment and Industry

The emphasis on net zero has allegedly resulted in job reductions as businesses relocate to nations with laxer environmental standards. The party’s choice highlights a call for the Australian government to focus on domestic prosperity over global obligations.

Exiting the Paris Agreement

After the net zero vote, the NSW Nationals endorsed a resolution calling for the Federal Government to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. Members contend that international climate treaties place undue economic pressure on Australia, impeding its growth potential.

Political Fallout

This policy alteration may heighten scrutiny on the federal leadership of the National Party and the larger Coalition, revealing a divide between urban and regional beliefs regarding climate policy. As Senator Matt Canavan remarked, it is time for the “AUSTRALIAN government to prioritize AUSTRALIANS.”

Summary

The NSW Nationals’ choice to forsake net zero objectives and the Paris Agreement signifies a crucial change in Australian climate policy, spurred by economic concerns and a wish to emphasize national interests. This action has the potential to transform internal party relations and sway discussions in forthcoming federal elections.

Q: What prompted the NSW Nationals to discard net zero?

A: The choice was motivated by worries concerning the economic ramifications of current climate policies, such as increasing costs for food, energy, and transport.

Q: What are the consequences of exiting the Paris Agreement?

A: Departing from the Paris Agreement could free Australia from global climate responsibilities but may draw criticism from environmental advocates and international allies.

Q: How could this decision impact the Coalition?

A: It may foster discord within the Coalition, shedding light on disparities between regional and urban viewpoints on climate policies.

Q: What is the wider political consequence of this decision?

A: The decision might shape future federal election battles, with climate policy emerging as a crucial topic of discussion.

For more details, visit the NSW Nationals website.

BT Leader Expects AI to Escalate Job Cuts

Nicholas Webb on June 16, 2025

Effects of AI on BT Workforce and Upcoming Strategies

Brief Overview

The CEO of BT Group foresees that AI might result in more extensive workforce reductions.
There are plans to achieve a cost reduction of £3 billion (A$6.3 billion) by the year 2030.
The potential separation of BT’s network infrastructure division, Openreach, is being contemplated.
Robust demand for fiber broadband is enhancing BT’s financial results.

AI’s Influence on BT’s Workforce Plan

BT CEO forecasts further job losses due to AI advancements

Under the guidance of Chief Executive Allison Kirkby, BT Group is bracing for a potential wave of job cuts driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. With targets set to eliminate over 40,000 jobs and save £3 billion (A$6.3 billion) by the decade’s end, the true impact of AI remains a significant consideration.

Prospects for Future Workforce

As a prominent broadband and mobile provider, BT plans to considerably scale back its workforce, potentially impacting around 55,000 roles, inclusive of contractors, by 2030. This strategic direction corresponds with prior remarks from ex-CEO Philip Jansen, who noted the necessity for a streamlined workforce and a lower cost structure by the 2020s.

Openreach: Possible Spin-Off

Allison Kirkby has suggested that spinning off Openreach, BT’s network infrastructure division, may be on the horizon if its value continues to be undervalued in the company’s stock price. While not an immediate priority, the option remains viable.

Financial Results and Market Strength

BT has reported a strong appetite for fiber broadband and has realized more than £900 million in cost efficiencies, strengthening its earnings and cash flow. The resilience of Openreach has counteracted declines in other segments, where traditional services are fading and device sales are diminishing.

Conclusion

BT Group is in the midst of a transformative phase, utilizing AI to possibly optimize its workforce while contemplating strategic business shifts like the potential Openreach separation. With an emphasis on cost management and market durability, BT’s forthcoming strategies will be crucial for maintaining its competitive position.

Q: What are the primary drivers of BT’s job reductions?

A: BT’s goal is to decrease its workforce to lower costs and enhance efficiency, with AI advancements playing a pivotal role in facilitating these reductions.

Q: In what ways could AI affect BT’s operations?

A: AI may enable BT to automate operations, resulting in a reduced workforce and additional cost savings, improving overall efficiency.

Q: Why is Openreach significant to BT’s business approach?

A: Openreach is essential for BT’s network framework, and its potential separation could release value if its market valuation is not mirrored in BT’s stock price.

Q: How has BT’s financial status been of late?

A: BT has experienced strong demand for fiber broadband, realizing considerable cost savings and showcasing resilience in its network infrastructure, despite downturns in other sectors.

Vivid Sydney 2025 Comes to an End: 23 Spectacular Nights of Illumination, Creativity, and the Kia EV3 Exhibition

wpengine on June 15, 2025

Vivid Sydney 2025 Concludes: An Incredible Display of Light, Music, and Innovation

Quick Summary

Vivid Sydney 2025 wrapped up after 23 nights of spectacular light and cultural experiences.
The festival attracted huge crowds, significantly boosting Sydney’s economy.
This year’s theme, ‘Dream’, enchanted millions of visitors from both near and far.
For the first time, the Museum of Sydney participated in the light displays.
Performances included Tangerine Dream and Sigur Rós alongside the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Special discussions by Martha Stewart and D.W. Pine from TIME Magazine highlighted the Ideas program.
Kia featured its EV3 electric vehicle within the technology showcase.
Preparations for Vivid Sydney 2026 are already in progress with great anticipations.

Record Attendance and Economic Contribution

Vivid Sydney 2025 has demonstrated yet again why it is the largest event in Australia. The festival turned the city into an engaging canvas full of light, music, and creativity. This year’s theme, ‘Dream’, drew millions of visitors, resulting in record hotel occupancy rates and significant economic benefits for Sydney.

Themes and Features

Illuminating Light

The festival’s Light Walk was a standout, showcasing interactive installations and 3D projections. New features like the lit-up Museum of Sydney in Martin Place captured people’s imaginations.

Enchanting Music

Music fans had access to free concerts at Tumbalong Nights and exclusive shows by international stars such as Tangerine Dream and Sigur Rós at the Sydney Opera House.

Innovative Ideas

This year’s Ideas program included presentations from Martha Stewart, D.W. Pine of TIME Magazine, and sleep specialist Professor Matthew Walker, emphasizing creativity and the science of dreams.

Delicious Food

Culinary delights were plentiful, featuring sold-out dinners hosted by Nigella Lawson and the returning Vivid Fire Kitchen, which showcased fire-based cooking methods.

Technological Advancements and Creativity

Tech Partners Light Up the City

Prominent tech partners such as Samsung and Kia were instrumental. Guests were captivated by the Kia EV3 electric vehicle display along the Light Walk, blending automotive innovation with the festival.

Conclusion

Vivid Sydney 2025 was a tremendous success, reinforcing its reputation as a leading cultural event on the world stage. By fusing art, music, ideas, and innovation, the festival not only entertained attendees but also greatly enhanced Sydney’s economy. As plans for Vivid Sydney 2026 commence, expectations are elevated for yet another enchanting event.

Q: What was the theme of Vivid Sydney 2025?

A: The theme was ‘Dream’, concentrating on creativity and human connection.

Q: What impact did Vivid Sydney 2025 have on the local economy?

A: The festival resulted in record hotel occupancy and provided significant economic advantages to local businesses, aiding thousands of jobs.

Q: What new features were incorporated in the 2025 festival?

A: For the first time, the Museum of Sydney was illuminated, and the Kia EV3 electric vehicle was highlighted in the technology display.

Q: Who were some key speakers at the Vivid Ideas program?

A: Key speakers included lifestyle icon Martha Stewart, D.W. Pine from TIME Magazine, and sleep expert Professor Matthew Walker.

Q: When is Vivid Sydney 2026 anticipated to occur?

A: While precise dates are still pending, planning for Vivid Sydney 2026 is already in progress, promising another remarkable event.

Curtin University Propels Ambitious Tech Revamp

Vanessa May on June 15, 2025

Curtin University Tech Evolution

Brief Overview

Curtin University finishes the initial stage of its IT evolution leveraging AWS and ServiceNow.
CIO Jason Cowie spearheads a “radical change” in IT operations.
The institution plans to significantly decrease its applications from 900 to 50.
The subsequent phase concentrates on front-end projects, including an all-in-one student app driven by AI.
The ServiceNow CIO Dashboard is centralized for managing resources and prioritizing projects.

Establishing the Base

Curtin University in Perth has undertaken an ambitious IT reform led by CIO Jason Cowie, who became part of the university in 2018. Assigned with the task of orchestrating a “radical change,” Cowie initiated a restructuring of the IT team to attract premier technology talent. The first phase of the reform involved phasing out outdated systems and building a cloud-based infrastructure in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Curtin University advances in innovative tech overhaul

Curtin University

iStockPhoto

Cowie’s early steps included terminating a suggested data centre update in place of a complete digital strategy. This choice led to the creation of a “foundational cloud” that effectively oversees applications and data, allowing the university to shut down one of its on-site data centres. The objective is to condense the application count from 900 to a controlled 50, ensuring improved management and security.

Complete Transparency

In 2021, Curtin implemented ServiceNow for IT service administration, beginning with incident management and support functions. The platform’s role expanded to encompass project management and risk oversight, ultimately including a performance dashboard for executive monitoring. This all-encompassing CIO Dashboard has become vital for managing resources and determining project priorities, enabling Cowie to effectively display outcomes to stakeholders.

ServiceNow’s Idea Portal further promotes engagement by enabling users to submit and vote on new projects. “We wanted everything monitored in a single central location,” Cowie stated, highlighting the significance of transparency and data-informed decision-making.

The Subsequent Phase

With foundational systems established, Curtin’s IT evolution is advancing to its second stage, concentrating on improving user experiences through AI and automation. This phase aspires to unify various student-facing applications into one seamless platform similar to online banking. Current AI projects include virtual patients for healthcare students and digital assistants for common inquiries.

The university also intends to automate the lifecycle management of its 50,000 IT assets, employing AI to streamline procurement and refresh cycles. “We aim to leverage our data and digital expertise, facilitated by AI, to evolve into a more tech-savvy institution,” Cowie noted, underscoring the aspiration to allow academic staff more freedom to concentrate on research and teaching.

Conclusion

Curtin University’s multi-year IT evolution, guided by CIO Jason Cowie, is establishing new benchmarks in educational technology. The successful completion of the initial phase positions the institution for innovative front-end advancements by utilizing cloud technology and AI to enhance user experiences and operational efficiency.

Q: What was the main goal of Curtin University’s IT evolution?

A: The main goal was to transform the university’s IT infrastructure, phase out legacy systems, and construct a cloud platform with AWS to facilitate future digital services.

Q: How is Curtin University utilizing AI in its IT evolution?

A: AI is being utilized to power an integrated student app, oversee the lifecycle of IT assets, and enrich digital engagement through virtual patient simulations and digital assistants.

Q: What part does ServiceNow play in Curtin’s IT strategy?

A: ServiceNow is fundamental to Curtin’s IT service management, project oversight, and resource allocation, providing a platform for visibility and stakeholder interaction via its CIO Dashboard and Idea Portal.

Q: What are the anticipated results of phase two in Curtin’s IT evolution?

A: Phase two seeks to modernize student interactions, streamline academic services, and diminish the number of applications to roughly 50, harnessing AI and automation to enhance user experiences.

Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter Illuminates Technology-Enabled Abuse

Matthew Miller on June 15, 2025

Brief Overview

The Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter (NBWS) is seeking assistance to tackle technology-enabled abuse against women.
NBWS points out the difficulties in identifying cyber abuse due to its multifaceted nature.
Partnering with tech organizations like N-Able IT is essential for developing cybersecurity and training for staff.
Protecting the sensitive information of residents and donors is a primary focus for NBWS.
For case management and data safety, NBWS utilizes Infoxchange.
Technological knowledge is incorporated into the NBWS Board for effective governance.
Since 2010, NBWS has grown, now providing four services and five houses to assist women and children.

Technology as an Opportunity and a Risk

The Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter (NBWS) is leading the charge in confronting an escalating issue—technology-facilitated and cyber abuse. This concern has become increasingly common among women seeking assistance from the organization.

Northern Beaches Women's Shelter tackles tech-enabled abuse

Challenges in Recognizing Cyber Abuse

CEO Narelle Hand highlights the difficulties in detecting technology-facilitated abuse due to its complicated nature. Victims may suspect digital monitoring, but substantiating such allegations is often challenging. This intricacy calls for specialized skills and outside support to assist these women effectively.

Developing Digital Proficiency

NBWS collaborates with technology partners like N-Able IT to bolster cybersecurity initiatives and staff training. By implementing the latest security software, NBWS guarantees that their staff and the women they support are well-guarded in the online environment.

Emphasizing Data Safety

Data safety is essential for NBWS, protecting the information of at-risk women, donors, and the organization itself. Hand underscores the significance of both legal and ethical obligations in safeguarding this sensitive information. NBWS uses Infoxchange for secure case management and vigilantly oversees donor data with their IT security team.

Incorporating Tech Expertise in Leadership

Understanding the significance of tech knowledge, NBWS integrates technological skills into its Board. This strategic decision ensures the organization stays abreast of industry developments and can make informed decisions to improve its operations and governance.

NBWS’s Development and Influence

Since its establishment in 2010, NBWS has significantly expanded from providing crisis services to offering various support through four services and five houses. This growth reflects the shelter’s dedication to uplifting women and children in need.

Conclusion

NBWS is actively working to counter technology-enabled abuse through enhanced digital capabilities, strategic collaborations, and strong data protection practices. Their commitment to integrating technology into governance and broadening support services showcases their determination to safeguard and empower vulnerable women.

Q: What constitutes technology-enabled abuse?

A: Technology-enabled abuse refers to the use of digital tools to harass, track, or control individuals, particularly in contexts of domestic violence.

Q: How is NBWS tackling technology-enabled abuse?

A: NBWS collaborates with tech firms for cybersecurity training and implements advanced software to safeguard and assist women facing such abuse.

Q: Why is data protection important for NBWS?

A: Safeguarding sensitive data is crucial for ensuring the safety and confidentiality of at-risk women and sustaining donor confidence.

Q: What is the significance of technology on NBWS’s Board?

A: Having tech expertise on the Board promotes informed decision-making and effective governance in addressing contemporary challenges.

Q: How has NBWS evolved since its founding?

A: From its beginnings as a crisis service in 2010, NBWS has grown to provide four services and run five houses to assist women and children.

Google Cloud Service Interruption Affects Key Platforms

wpengine on June 14, 2025

Disruption in Google Cloud Affects Key Platforms

Brief Overview

Google Cloud disruption impacted key platforms, such as Spotify and Discord.
Thousands of users globally were affected by the issue.
Service troubles were associated with an unnamed “underlying dependency”.
Sydney and Melbourne were included in the list of affected areas.
Most regions regained functionality by 6.15am AEST.
Downdetector noted more than 44,000 Spotify-related reports and 8,000 Discord-related reports.

Impact of Google Cloud Disruption

The recent disruption in Google Cloud services resulted in notable interruptions across various platforms, significantly affecting Spotify and Discord. Tens of thousands of users faced service interruptions, primarily due to issues with API request handling.

Regions Affected

The disruption impacted numerous regions, including Sydney and Melbourne, where several users reported service problems. Google Cloud indicated that most areas had regained functionality by 6.15am AEST.

Technical Issues and Mitigation

Google Cloud linked the service interruptions to an “underlying dependency,” which has not been clarified. Engineers made concerted efforts to resolve the situation, confirming recovery in various regions. However, the total time for complete resolution remains uncertain.

Service-Specific Disruptions

Spotify reported over 44,000 disruption incidents in the US, while Discord recorded more than 8,000. Additional services like Google Meet and the Google search engine also encountered difficulties. These figures were gathered by Downdetector based on reports from users.

Conclusion

The Google Cloud disruption resulted in considerable interruptions across major platforms, impacting a large number of users worldwide. Although most services have been reinstated, the event underscores the difficulties faced by cloud providers and the importance of dependable infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What led to the Google Cloud disruption?

A: The disruption was linked to an unspecified “underlying dependency” affecting API requests.

Q: Which platforms experienced the most significant impact?

A: Spotify and Discord were significantly affected, with numerous reports of issues.

Q: Were any regions in Australia impacted?

A: Yes, both Sydney and Melbourne faced service interruptions.

Q: How does Downdetector monitor service disruptions?

A: Downdetector compiles reports submitted by users to monitor service outages.

Q: Have all services been restored?

A: Most impacted areas had restored service by 6.15am AEST, though the complete resolution timeline was unclear.

Q: How can users remain updated on outages?

A: Users can check the Google Cloud status page and platforms like Downdetector for real-time information.

Disruption in Google Cloud affects services

US Restricts Huawei to 200,000 AI Chip Manufacturing by 2025

Vanessa May on June 14, 2025

US Sets Restrictions on Huawei AI Chip Manufacturing

Overview

The US restricts Huawei’s AI chip manufacturing to 200,000 units by 2025.
US export regulations limit Chinese access to advanced chips and machinery.
China is quickly narrowing the technological gap in AI with the US.
Huawei is heavily investing to enhance its chip capabilities.
Nvidia experiences a loss in market share due to US export restrictions.
US-China trade discussions result in a provisional ceasefire.

Overview of US Export Regulations

Since 2019, the United States has enacted various export regulations designed to curtail China’s technological and military progress. These rules have restricted Huawei and other Chinese companies from obtaining high-end US chips and critical manufacturing tools.

Huawei’s AI Chip Production Constraints

According to Jeffrey Kessler, Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, Huawei Technologies’ ability to produce cutting-edge artificial intelligence chips is limited to 200,000 units by 2025. This number does not meet Huawei’s demand but underscores China’s advancements in technology.

Huawei AI chip production limited by US to 200,000 in 2025

China’s Swift Technological Advancements

In spite of the limitations, China is rapidly catching up with US capabilities in AI. White House AI Czar David Sacks remarked that China is merely three to six months behind the US in AI technology. However, Chinese AI chips lag one to two years behind US versions.

Huawei’s Commitment to Chip Enhancement

Huawei’s CEO Ren Zhengfei admits that their chips are a generation behind those of US rivals, but the company invests in excess of US$25 billion each year to boost performance. This significant investment highlights Huawei’s determination to bridge the technology divide.

Effects on Nvidia and US-China Trade Dynamics

Nvidia, the global frontrunner in AI chips, has faced a decline in market share owing to US export restrictions that inhibit the sale of its advanced chips to China. Concurrently, US-China trade discussions in London yielded a provisional truce, although ongoing disputes concerning export regulations and mineral exports continue to strain relations.

Conclusion

The US has enacted limitations on Huawei’s AI chip production as part of its broader efforts to impede China’s technological progress. While Huawei confronts production limitations, the swift advancement of AI technology in China presents a significant challenge for the US. As trade tensions endure, the outlook for technological rivalry between these superpowers remains unpredictable.

Questions & Answers

Q: What prompted the US to limit Huawei’s AI chip production?

A: The US seeks to hinder China’s technological and military advancements by restricting access to high-end US chips and manufacturing tools.

Q: How is China advancing in AI technology?

A: China is closing the gap with the US, with its AI models trailing by only three to six months, although its AI chips remain one to two years behind.

Q: What steps is Huawei taking to enhance its chip technology?

A: Huawei commits over US$25 billion yearly to improve the performance of its chips, aiming to catch up to US competitors.

Q: In what way do US export restrictions impact Nvidia?

A: US export controls on high-tech chips have resulted in Nvidia losing market share, as it restricts the company’s ability to market its advanced products in China.

Q: What are the consequences of the US-China trade truce?

A: The tentative agreement in trade negotiations may alleviate some tensions, but persistent disagreements regarding export controls and mineral exports continue to pose challenges for relations.

Vocus to Build Australia’s Initial Landing Station for Telesat’s LEO Satellite Network

Nicholas Webb on June 13, 2025

Vocus and Telesat Collaborate to Enhance Australia’s Satellite Infrastructure

Vocus to Construct Australia's First Landing Station for Telesat's LEO Satellite Network

Quick Overview

Vocus teams up with Telesat to establish Australia’s first landing station for LEO satellites.
The ground station will be situated in New South Wales.
It will function as a vital connection between LEO satellites and terrestrial networks.
The initiative targets enterprise and government sectors.
Key offerings include advanced security and direct terminal connectivity.
The initial satellites are anticipated to launch in late 2026.

Establishing a New Digital Framework

Vocus, a prominent digital infrastructure provider in Australia, has unveiled a significant alliance with global satellite operator Telesat. This multi-year partnership will encompass the creation and management of Australia’s first ground station for the Telesat Lightspeed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. Set to be constructed in New South Wales, this landing station will interface with Vocus’ vast fibre network, forming a vital connection between cutting-edge LEO satellites and terrestrial data systems. The project is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency services across the country.

Enhancing Digital Resilience

As a premier provider of landing stations and fibre network solutions, Vocus is well-positioned to deliver scalable terrestrial infrastructure that bolsters Australia’s digital resilience. The Telesat LEO satellites are set for launch in late 2026, and the newly established landing station will be integral to satellite testing and customer field trials ahead of worldwide service delivery.

Expanding Vocus’s Offerings

This initiative enhances Vocus’s already robust portfolio, which includes 30 ground stations either operational or under development. Moreover, Vocus has pledged to offer Telesat Lightspeed services to its clients post network activation, emphasizing its long-term commitment to this venture.

Focus on Enterprise and Government

The upcoming services are designed for enterprise and government users, featuring committed information rates (CIR) and comprehensive service level agreements. This guarantees dependable, low-latency connectivity essential for mission-critical communications.

Direct Terminal Connections

A distinctive aspect of the network is its ability to enable direct terminal connections through satellite. This removes the necessity for ground-based links when transmitting sensitive data, ensuring a secure communication pathway.

Enhanced Security and Management

The structure of the network incorporates Private Access Stations and enhanced security features, providing Vocus customers with full authority over data encryption for mission-critical communications. This guarantees data sovereignty that transcends geographical boundaries.

Global Integration

Vocus will incorporate MEF 3.0 compliant Telesat Lightspeed Carrier Ethernet services to address the secure, mission-critical needs of its Australian and international customers. This positions Vocus as a significant participant in global digital communications.

Conclusion

Vocus’s collaboration with Telesat represents a major advancement in Australia’s digital infrastructure. By establishing the nation’s first LEO satellite landing station, Vocus aspires to deliver high-speed, secure, and resilient communication services for enterprise and government users. The endeavor highlights Vocus’s dedication to augmenting Australia’s digital connectivity and security.

Q&A

Q: What is the aim of the new landing station?

A: The landing station will act as an essential connection between Telesat’s LEO satellites and terrestrial data networks, facilitating high-speed, low-latency services throughout Australia.

Q: Who are the intended users for the new services?

A: The services are directed towards enterprise and government clients, providing secure and reliable communication solutions for mission-critical requirements.

Q: When are the Telesat LEO satellites expected to launch?

A: The first Telesat LEO satellites are projected to launch in late 2026, with subsequent testing and customer trials to follow.

Q: What security features are integrated into the network?

A: The network boasts advanced security elements like Private Access Stations and data encryption, granting customers complete control over their communication.

Q: How does terminal-to-terminal connectivity function?

A: The network allows direct satellite connections between terminals, bypassing the need for ground-based links and ensuring secure data transmission.

Q: Is this service available for residential customers?

A: No, the service is primarily focused on commercial and government clients rather than residential users.

GO Markets Seeks Ex-CIO Over IT Contract Conflicts

wpengine on June 13, 2025

GO Markets Legal Action Regarding IT Contract Conflicts

Overview

GO Markets is taking legal steps against ex-CIO Asheish Gupta for purported undisclosed commissions.
The legal situation is made more complex by Gupta’s bankruptcy filing.
GO Markets is reviewing numerous IT contracts, including those with Gigabit Hosting, IBM, and Link11.
The case is still in progress, with several vendors needing court orders to provide documents.

Legal Dispute Regarding Undisclosed Commissions

GO Markets, a leading brokerage and trading enterprise, has commenced legal action against its former chief information officer (CIO), Asheish Gupta. The claims revolve around Gupta’s alleged role in facilitating undisclosed commission agreements with various IT vendors. This situation underscores the intricacies of corporate governance and the significance of transparency in procurement systems.

GO Markets probes former CIO for IT contract discrepancies

Bankruptcy Issues

The legal action, initially filed in December of last year, faced difficulties when Gupta declared bankruptcy in March. This development forced GO Markets to seek judicial approval to proceed with its case and demand documents from several IT suppliers involved with the trading firm.

Contracts Under Investigation

At the heart of the accusations is a $3.8 million contract with Gigabit Hosting Sdn Bhd. Court files indicate that Gupta is accused of receiving undisclosed commissions amounting to USD $1,116,226.79 from Gigabit between January 2019 and April 2024. The court is also scrutinizing other agreements, including a $4.2 million contract with IBM for SoftLayer technology and a $1.6 million contract with German cybersecurity company Link11 and its subsidiary, DOSArrest.

Continuing Legal Proceedings

Federal Court Justice O’Callaghan has acknowledged the validity of GO Markets’ legal pursuit, mentioning that at least one vendor is reluctant to provide documents without a court-ordered procedure. The ruling from the court allows GO Markets to carry on with its legal pursuit as it aims to uncover the full extent of the claimed misconduct.

Conclusion

The legal proceedings initiated by GO Markets against its previous CIO for alleged undisclosed commissions from IT vendors highlight the crucial necessity for transparency and accountability in corporate transactions. The ongoing legal battle, complicated by the former CIO’s bankruptcy, illustrates the legal and ethical hurdles that companies encounter in upholding governance principles.

Q: What are the primary accusations against Asheish Gupta?

A: Gupta is charged with arranging undisclosed commissions from IT vendors during his tenure as CIO at GO Markets.

Q: How has Gupta’s bankruptcy impacted the case?

A: Gupta’s bankruptcy filing compelled GO Markets to obtain court authorization to carry on the case and subpoena necessary documents.

Q: Which contracts are currently being investigated?

A: Investigated contracts include a $3.8 million arrangement with Gigabit Hosting and agreements with IBM and Link11.

Q: What is the present condition of the legal proceedings?

A: The case is active, with some vendors requiring court orders to provide documentation. The court’s decision allows GO Markets to proceed with its legal actions.