Category: Australia Tech News

Brief Overview

• Rishi Nicolai, an ex-Microsoft executive, has joined Home Affairs to lead AI advancements.
• Nicolai’s responsibilities center on the integration of AI to enhance productivity in Home Affairs.
• AI projects include chatbots and tools for sentiment analysis.
• Home Affairs is boosting its AI utilization within the AWS infrastructure.

Rishi Nicolai Assumes Leadership at Home Affairs

Rishi Nicolai, who dedicated 13 years to Microsoft in various capacities, has been named the director of AI adoption at Home Affairs. His background as a Copilot behavioral specialist is expected to play a crucial role in advancing the department’s AI functions. Nicolai shared his excitement on LinkedIn, stating, “This next chapter is a powerful opportunity to lead transformative change, and I’m energised by the challenge of helping shape how AI can serve the public good with integrity and impact.”

AI Projects at Home Affairs

Home Affairs has launched various AI projects, highlighted during the AI Government Showcase in Canberra. One of these was a chatbot created with the open-source tool Ollama, aimed at modernizing the department’s legacy Java codebase. This chatbot was developed in only two weeks.

Another initiative comprised the use of Microsoft’s Phi-2 model to analyze APS census data and automate cultural surveys within the Australian Border Force. The model was subsequently upgraded to Phi-4 to assist with visa-related inquiries, underscoring the department’s intent to harness AI for operational enhancement.

Looking Ahead: AI Growth

In the future, Home Affairs intends to broaden its AI applications on the AWS platform. The department aims to refine AI models with more robust computational resources, indicating a strong plan for adopting AI technology.

Conclusion

The designation of Rishi Nicolai signifies a crucial advancement for Home Affairs in bolstering its AI capabilities. With an impressive history at Microsoft, Nicolai is poised to spearhead AI integration within the department, concentrating on initiatives that enhance productivity and operational effectiveness. As Home Affairs continues to investigate AI opportunities, its projects hold the potential to significantly impact the public sector.

Questions & Answers

Q: Who is Rishi Nicolai?

A: Rishi Nicolai is a previous Microsoft executive with 13 years of experience, recently appointed as the director of AI adoption at Home Affairs.

Q: What is the main focus of Nicolai’s role at Home Affairs?

A: Nicolai’s role concentrates on speeding up AI adoption to increase productivity within Home Affairs.

Q: What AI projects has Home Affairs launched?

A: Home Affairs has launched projects including a chatbot for legacy code updates and sentiment analysis tools employing Microsoft’s Phi-2 and Phi-4 models.

Q: How does Home Affairs plan to broaden its AI usage?

A: Home Affairs intends to expand AI usage on its AWS platform, refining models with more sophisticated computational infrastructure.

Q: What is the importance of the AI Government Showcase?

A: The AI Government Showcase demonstrated Home Affairs’ initial AI initiatives and its dedication to incorporating AI into public service functions.

Quick Overview

• Organisations frequently emphasize checklists, overlooking vital third-party risks.
• Thorough reviews are crucial to adapt to changing cyber threats.
• Routine access evaluations and independent verification are key elements of effective cybersecurity agreements.
• Cyber insurance requirements are altering contract stipulations.
• Simplified contract formats can improve cybersecurity for smaller enterprises.

Third-Party Risks in Cyber Compliance

The Chief Strategy Officer at Identifly, Aaron Finnis, points out a common concern in cybersecurity enforcement—organisations tend to be focused on completing checklists, disregarding the significant issue of third-party risks. This negligence can result in serious vulnerabilities, particularly as businesses increasingly depend on external providers for various services.

Refreshing Cybersecurity Agreements

Finnis stresses the importance of Australian organisations revamping their cybersecurity contract evaluation approaches. Thorough reviews must validate service scopes and data handling practices, ensuring strict compliance with cyber controls.

Common Oversights in Cybersecurity Agreements

A notable oversight is the absence of processes for regulating vendor access to client assets. Frequently, vendors receive extensive initial access without further assessments or renewals, creating potential security threats.

Compliance and Practicality in Agreements

Although compliance standards are becoming more rigorous, they often overlook crucial third-party risks, including vendor locations and access methods. Finnis indicates that practical procedures aimed at genuinely reducing risks can be eclipsed by an emphasis on checklist completion.

The Effect of Regulatory Demands

With heightened regulatory demands like CPS 230, there is a clear trend towards one-time checklist assessments. However, Finnis cautions that these may not be adequate over time as organisations’ cyber statuses change, underscoring the need for regular and continuous evaluations.

SaaS Data Security Challenges

Standard contracts for SaaS applications such as Xero, HubSpot, and Salesforce typically provide limited negotiation flexibility, complicating the integration of clauses for timely incident communication and framework adherence.

Critical Contract Clauses

Response to incidents is vital, especially given the increasing emphasis on ransomware notifications. Finnis advocates for a contractual requirement for incident reporting within 48 hours of detection to enable prompt action by clients.

Balancing IT and Business Objectives

Current agreements often prioritize insurance and liability over enforcing essential controls. Finnis suggests using independent validation to confirm the efficacy of partner controls, ensuring they fulfill the requirements of boards and business management.

The Influence of Cyber Insurance

Cyber insurance prerequisites are progressively molding contract content. Organisations need to scrutinize coverage dimensions, exclusions, and compliance requirements to guarantee thorough protection.

Simple Contract Structures for Small Enterprises

For small enterprises, straightforward contract formats are crucial. Emphasizing key controls like transparent reporting and independent verification can greatly bolster security without added complexity.

Conclusion

Organisations must transition their emphasis from simply completing checklists to effectively managing third-party risks in cybersecurity agreements. Regular evaluations, independent verification, and strategic contractual provisions are essential for upholding strong cyber defenses. As regulatory demands and cyber insurance requirements evolve, businesses should modify their contract strategies to guarantee comprehensive protection and responsibility.

Q: How can organisations improve their management of third-party risks in cybersecurity?

A: By performing thorough reviews that verify service scopes and data management, and by instituting regular access evaluations and independent validation.

Q: What are some prevalent oversights in cybersecurity agreements?

A: Insufficient processes for managing vendor access and an inadequate focus on practical risk management are common oversights.

Q: Why are compliance standards often inadequate?

A: They may excessively concentrate on checklist completion, neglecting significant third-party risks and practical measures that mitigate risks.

Q: How are cyber insurance stipulations affecting agreements?

A: They are driving increased coverage expectations, and organisations should meticulously evaluate coverage scopes, exclusions, and compliance requirements.

Q: What should small enterprises prioritize in their cybersecurity agreements?

A: They should focus on simplicity, emphasizing critical controls such as transparent reporting and independent validation to effectively enhance security.

Fast Overview

• Modernising Business Intelligence (BI) is essential for realizing genuine business value.
• Persistent Systems Australia and Google Cloud are at the forefront of BI innovations.
• Advanced analytics platforms are reshaping data strategies.
• Main topics included actionable insights and sophisticated analytics.

The Imperative of Business Intelligence Modernisation

A recent executive roundtable held in Sydney brought together leaders from diverse sectors to explore Business Intelligence (BI) modernisation in collaboration with Persistent Systems Australia and Google Cloud. The event emphasized the pressing need to embrace next-level analytics platforms to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly changing business environment.

The Impact of Persistent Systems and Google Cloud

As event sponsors, Persistent Systems Australia and Google Cloud highlighted their critical contributions to enhancing BI practices. Their state-of-the-art solutions are tailored to utilize cloud technology for improved data processing and analytics, making it simpler for companies to derive actionable insights.

Future-Ready Analytics Platforms

The roundtable explored the capabilities of future-ready analytics platforms. These systems provide unmatched prospects for data integration, real-time analytics, and predictive analysis. By modernising BI systems, organizations can discover new value opportunities and enhance strategic decision-making.

Conclusion

The Sydney roundtable reaffirmed the significance of upgrading Business Intelligence. With Persistent Systems Australia and Google Cloud in leadership roles, organizations are better positioned to capitalize on advanced analytics, keeping them agile and data-informed in a continuously changing market.

Q: Why is modernising BI vital for organizations?

A: BI modernisation allows organizations to maintain competitiveness by delivering deeper insights via advanced data analytics and refining decision-making processes.

Q: In what ways do Persistent Systems and Google Cloud facilitate BI modernisation?

A: They provide innovative solutions that combine cloud technologies to enhance data processing and analytics, leading to improved business results.

Q: What constitutes next-generation analytics platforms?

A: These platforms integrate advanced data processing, real-time analytics, and predictive modeling to offer actionable insights and strategic advantages.

Q: What advantages do organizations achieve by modernising their BI systems?

A: Organizations can enhance efficiency, identify new business prospects, and make informed choices by employing the latest analytics technologies.

Q: What obstacles do organizations encounter in BI modernisation?

A: Obstacles include complexities in data integration, substantial implementation costs, and the necessity for skilled individuals to oversee advanced analytics tools.

Q: How can organizations navigate these obstacles?

A: By collaborating with technology leaders such as Persistent Systems and Google Cloud, organizations can gain access to expertise and resources to facilitate BI modernisation initiatives.

Overview of ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X

The gaming community is excited by the news that Asus Republic of Gamers and Xbox have collaborated to introduce the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in Australia. These portable gaming devices merge the console gaming experience with the versatility of Windows 11, aiming to satisfy both casual and dedicated gamers. With worldwide availability set for October 16, enthusiastic gamers can now place their pre-orders.

Superior Performance with Upgraded Processors

The ROG Xbox Ally X stands out with its AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, delivering a 30% performance enhancement for popular games like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Doom: The Dark Ages. Meanwhile, the standard ROG Xbox Ally is powered by the efficient AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, boosting frame rates by 20% in titles such as Forza Horizon 5 and Gears of War: Reloaded. Both models leverage AMD’s state-of-the-art technology, including FidelityFX Super Resolution and Fluid Motion Frames, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.

Enhanced Battery Performance

Battery longevity is a key highlight of the latest ROG Xbox Ally devices. The Ally X provides up to double the gaming duration in titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong compared to its earlier generation, while the basic model allows for 110% more active playtime during rigorous gaming sessions. These advancements result from carefully engineered software optimizations from Xbox and Windows, aimed at prolonging playtime and minimizing reliance on power sources.

Comfortable Design and Game Library

Both models showcase an ergonomic layout with a full-screen design and controls inspired by Xbox, helping to minimize hand fatigue during extended gaming durations. The lightweight construction and textured grip enhance comfort, whether at home or on the go. Furthermore, the unified gaming library consolidates games from leading PC stores, blending the benefits of the Xbox ecosystem with Windows capabilities for seamless enjoyment of favorite titles.

Cutting-Edge AMD Innovations

The ROG Xbox Ally handhelds utilize Radeon Super Resolution and frame generation technology, achieving frame rates up to 60% higher. This ensures that even the most demanding AAA games run effortlessly on these compact devices, delivering an unparalleled gaming experience.

Release and Pricing

Pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X have commenced, providing Australian gamers the opportunity to be among the first to possess these groundbreaking devices. The standard ROG Xbox Ally retails for A$999, offering reliable performance for casual players. For those looking for the premium experience, the Ally X is priced at A$1,599, boasting enhanced battery life and superior processing capabilities. Both versions are available at prominent retailers such as Asus e-Shop, JB Hi-Fi, and more.

Conclusion

The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X signify a major advancement in handheld gaming, combining the finest aspects of console and PC gaming into a portable format. With upgrades in performance, battery life, and access to a diverse gaming library, these devices are poised to transform mobile gaming for Australian players.

Q&A

Q: What are the primary distinctions between the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X?

A: Key differences are found in the processors and battery life. The Ally X incorporates the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor and provides extended battery life, while the standard Ally features the AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor.

Q: When will the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X be released in Australia?

A: Both models will be available globally, including Australia, beginning October 16.

Q: Where can I place a pre-order for the ROG Xbox Ally devices?

A: Pre-orders are accessible through the Microsoft Store, Asus e-Shop, and various local retailers like JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman.

Q: What prices should Australian gamers anticipate for these devices?

A: The ROG Xbox Ally is priced at A$999, while the Ally X is set at A$1,599.

Brief Overview

• Queensland’s AI traffic cameras have been pointed out for their lack of ethical oversight.
• The AI technology is part of the mobile phone and seatbelt technology (MPST) initiative.
• In operation since July 2021, it drastically minimizes the need for human reviews.
• A recent evaluation criticizes the lack of a complete ethical risk assessment.
• The Queensland Government’s AI Ethics Framework was made public in September 2024.
• The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) aims to enhance AI governance and monitoring by 2025.

Overview

Recent events have brought Queensland’s AI traffic cameras, essential to the state’s mobile phone and seatbelt technology (MPST) initiative, under examination. Designed by Acusensus, this system captures and analyzes millions of images to identify mobile phone usage and seatbelt violations. Despite its effectiveness, reducing the necessity for human review by 98%, a recent evaluation has raised issues regarding ethical oversight.

Audit Results and Ethical Issues

The audit findings indicate that the AI system was put into use prior to the Queensland Government releasing its AI governance policy. Although the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has taken actions to guarantee system dependability and privacy safeguards, a thorough ethical risk assessment remains absent. The audit urges TMR to pinpoint and address all potential ethical risks linked to the program.

Reaction and Future Strategies

In reaction to the audit, TMR has declared intentions to strengthen AI governance. Over the forthcoming year, they plan to create a framework for centralized oversight of AI systems. Additionally, they intend to integrate the state’s foundational artificial intelligence risk assessment (FAlRA) framework by the conclusion of 2025.

Growth and Oversight

TMR is actively broadening the MPST initiative, having extended a $27.4 million contract with Acusensus. Furthermore, they plan to implement monitoring protocols to enhance AI understanding and configuration for state government AI applications like QChat by December 2025.

Conclusion

Queensland’s AI traffic cameras are being criticized for the absence of ethical oversight, despite their efficient operation. The system has curtailed the need for human review, yet the lack of a complete ethical risk assessment has raised alarms. The Department of Transport and Main Roads is now focused on enhancing AI governance and establishing monitoring protocols to tackle these challenges.

Q: What is the main issue concerning Queensland’s AI traffic cameras?

A: The main issue is the lack of a comprehensive ethical risk assessment, as pointed out in a recent evaluation.

Q: What steps has TMR taken to respond to the audit findings?

A: TMR is working on enhancing AI governance by establishing a framework for centralized visibility of AI systems and adding the FAlRA framework by 2025.

Q: How effective is the AI system in minimizing human review requirements?

A: The AI system has decreased the necessity for human reviews by 98%, according to the audit results.

Q: What future initiatives does TMR have planned for the MPST program?

A: TMR aims to increase the number of MPST units and enhance internal AI monitoring and literacy by December 2025.

Q: What is the significance of the Queensland Government’s AI Ethics Framework?

A: Unveiled in September 2024, the framework outlines essential ethical considerations and governance for AI technologies in Queensland.

Brief Overview

• Corsair debuts the VANGUARD PRO 96 and VANGUARD 96 keyboards in Australia.
• Notable features include a 96% layout, integrated LCD display, and Elgato Stream Deck compatibility.
• CORSAIR MGX Hyperdrive switches ensure speed and durability.
• Both variants deliver an exceptional typing experience with sound-absorbing layers.
• Available immediately through Corsair’s online store and authorized Australian sellers.

Presenting the VANGUARD Series

Corsair has transformed the premium keyboard industry with the introduction of the VANGUARD PRO 96 and VANGUARD 96. These models exemplify the latest advancements from a brand famous for its gaming and creative peripherals.

Streamlined and Practical Design

The VANGUARD series boasts a 96% layout, maximising space while preserving the functionality of a full-size keyboard. This design is ideal for gamers who require additional desk space without giving up a numpad.

Innovative Switch Technology

The leading VANGUARD PRO 96 features CORSAIR MGX Hyperdrive Hall Effect magnetic switches, delivering swift response times and longevity. These switches come with capabilities such as adjustable actuation points and dual actuation, granting gamers unmatched command.

Key Features

Integrated LCD Display

Both keyboards come with a vibrant 320×170 LCD display, suitable for showcasing custom animations, images, or system statistics, enhancing personalisation options.

Elgato Stream Deck Compatibility

The addition of Elgato Stream Deck integration allows users to assign actions to six programmable G-keys, transforming content creation and streaming directly from the keyboard.

Performance and Typing Experience

Equipped with AXON hyper-processing technology, these keyboards feature an 8,000Hz hyper-polling rate for rapid keystroke detection. Four layers of sound-dampening materials guarantee an improved typing sensation.

Cloud-Based Customisation

The VANGUARD series provides cloud-based customisation through the CORSAIR Web Hub, removing the necessity for heavy software installations. Users can effortlessly modify RGB lighting, remap keys, and record macros from any web browser.

Pricing and Availability

Both the VANGUARD PRO 96 and VANGUARD 96 are now obtainable through Corsair’s online shop and certified Australian retailers. Pricing details for the Australian market will be announced shortly.

Conclusion

Corsair’s VANGUARD series has established a new benchmark in keyboards, flawlessly integrating gaming, streaming, and productivity features. With its pioneering design and technology, it stands out as one of the most thrilling releases of the year.

Q: What makes the VANGUARD series keyboards distinctive?

A: The VANGUARD series merges a compact 96% layout with cutting-edge features like an integrated LCD screen and Elgato Stream Deck compatibility, offering a multifaceted solution for gamers and creators alike.

Q: What type of switch technology is used in the VANGUARD PRO 96?

A: The VANGUARD PRO 96 employs CORSAIR MGX Hyperdrive Hall Effect magnetic switches, noted for their rapidity, dependability, and advanced features such as dual actuation.

Q: How can users personalise their VANGUARD keyboards?

A: Users may personalise their keyboards through the CORSAIR Web Hub, a cloud-based tool that facilitates RGB lighting adjustments, key remapping, and macro recording.

Q: Is the Elgato Stream Deck integration advantageous for streamers?

A: Absolutely, the Elgato Stream Deck integration enables streamers to manage their content straight from the keyboard, negating the necessity for a separate device.

Insignia Financial’s Strategic Shift to Google Cloud

Fast Overview

• Insignia Financial intends to migrate roughly 4000 VMware systems to Google Cloud.
• This initiative is aimed at decreasing operating expenses and improving service delivery.
• Insignia will deploy Google Cloud’s Vertex AI to enhance customer service.
• Existing data centres at NEXTDC will gradually decrease as cloud usage grows.
• Personalized and AI-enhanced solutions will improve customer interactions.

Cloud Migration Plan

Insignia Financial, formerly known as IOOF, is preparing to shift its vast VMware infrastructure to Google Cloud. This strategic initiative involves transferring around 4000 systems from its physical servers, aiming to optimize operations and utilize cloud technologies for better agility and cost-effectiveness.

Adoption of Google Cloud Services

Insignia has strengthened its collaboration with Google Cloud by creating an enterprise data platform on BigQuery. The financial services institution will utilize Vertex AI to boost its customer service abilities, making engagements more timely and personalized. This adoption of cloud services is anticipated to yield major enhancements in customer interaction and operational productivity.

Data Centre Approach

Currently, Insignia operates from three NEXTDC data centres throughout Australia. As the company embraces a ‘cloud right’ strategy, it plans to optimize its infrastructure by keeping only necessary on-site facilities while transferring workloads to environments that will best benefit the business and its clientele.

Dedication to VMware

Even with the transition to Google Cloud, Insignia is devoted to employing VMware as its hypervisor. The organization continues to observe market trends to ensure adaptability and value provision for its clients, indicating no immediate transitions regarding its hypervisor platform.

Advantages of Cloud Migration

Insignia believes that running VMware on the public cloud will promote more agile service delivery, leading to a significant decrease in operating costs. CTO Damien O’Donnell noted that consolidating VMware environments onto Google Cloud will reduce interruptions to applications and services while minimizing the on-site footprint and related expenses.

AI-Enhanced Customer Experience

Through the integration of Vertex AI, Insignia aspires to transform its customer service functions, delivering high-touch, highly tailored experiences to its members. This AI incorporation is expected to boost adviser efficiency and create data-driven, personalized journeys for over 1.5 million Australians supported by Insignia.

Emphasis on Personalisation

Personalisation is a foundational element of Insignia’s approach to providing relevant and meaningful experiences. Innovations such as the MLC Retirement Boost illustrate the company’s dedication to demystifying complex financial choices and equipping customers with assurance.

Conclusion

Insignia Financial’s shift to Google Cloud signifies a major advancement in modernizing its IT framework, concentrating on cost-effectiveness, agility, and improved customer experiences. The strategic implementation of Google Cloud and AI technologies positions Insignia to serve its large customer base with tailored and insightful solutions.

Q: What is the primary objective of Insignia Financial’s cloud migration?

A: The main objective is to lower operating costs, improve service delivery, and enhance customer experiences through modern cloud technologies.

Q: Which cloud services is Insignia implementing from Google Cloud?

A: Insignia is adopting BigQuery for data management and Vertex AI to improve customer service operations.

Q: Will Insignia continue utilizing VMware after migrating to the cloud?

A: Yes, Insignia intends to keep using VMware as its hypervisor while keeping an eye on market trends for future flexibility.

Q: How will the AI integration benefit Insignia’s clientele?

A: The AI integration will offer personalized, data-informed customer experiences, enhancing service response times and adviser productivity.

Q: What effect will this migration have on Insignia’s existing data centres?

A: Insignia plans to gradually decrease its physical data centre presence, retaining essential sites while migrating workloads to the cloud.

Q: How does Insignia aim to improve customer personalization?

A: Insignia seeks to use AI and data analytics to provide highly personalized financial services and solutions tailored to individual customer preferences.