Category: Australia Tech News

Brief Overview

• Coles Group CTO Mike Sackman departs after just one year.
• COO Matt Swindells is stepping in as interim replacement.
• Sackman advanced Coles’ tech strategy and cyber security measures.
• Implemented tools such as ChatGPT Enterprise and Copilot.
• His departure comes after a reshuffle in leadership following John Cox’s exit.

Another Leadership Shift in Coles Group’s Tech Division

Coles Group is undergoing yet another change in leadership as Chief Technology Officer Mike Sackman exits after a brief tenure of merely one year. His departure signifies a significant transition for the Australian grocery leader as it works through its ambitious plans for technological transformation.

Insights into Sackman’s Role and Contributions

Sackman, who assumed the position in March 2026, brought an extensive background from his previous CIO positions at UK retail leaders such as John Lewis Partnership, Waitrose, and Argos. Throughout his year at Coles, he played a crucial role in pushing the company’s tech agenda forward, particularly through the execution of their 3D strategy.

Enhancements Through the 3D Strategy

The 3D strategy remained at the forefront during Sackman’s time, aiming to position Coles as a leading destination for food and drink, while fast-tracking digital advancements and ensuring reliable service delivery. Under his guidance, Coles adopted advanced tools like ChatGPT Enterprise and Copilot, which optimized routine operations and elevated work quality throughout the organization.

Reinforced Cyber Security Protocols

Sackman placed significant importance on cyber security, enhancing the safeguarding of customer and employee information. His initiatives ensured that Coles’ physical and online platforms operated efficiently, strengthening trust among consumers and stakeholders alike.

Leadership Transition and Future Outlook

As Sackman heads back to the UK, Coles’ COO Matt Swindells will act as interim CTO. This shift follows the exit of previous CTO John Cox, who departed after a restructuring of the tech leadership towards the end of 2026. Coles is now charged with the task of identifying a fitting successor to continue pushing its technological evolution.

Conclusion

The exit of Mike Sackman from Coles Group after just one year as CTO signifies a critical juncture for the organization. His contributions towards advancing technology programs and enhancing cyber security have laid a strong groundwork for future progression. As Coles deals with this leadership alteration, the company remains committed to its strategic techno-objectives and further growing its digital footprint.

Q: What led to Mike Sackman’s departure from Coles Group?

A: Sackman is returning to the UK, although Coles has not specified the exact timeline of his departure.

Q: Who will serve as the interim CTO at Coles?

A: Matt Swindells, who is the Chief Operating Officer of Coles, will take over as the interim CTO.

Q: Which technology initiatives did Sackman spearhead at Coles?

A: Sackman played a key role in executing Coles’ 3D strategy, rolling out tools like ChatGPT Enterprise and Copilot, and enhancing cyber security practices.

Q: What does Coles’ 3D strategy entail?

A: The 3D strategy is designed to establish Coles as a key destination for food and beverages, accelerate digital initiatives, and guarantee dependable service delivery.

Q: In what ways did Sackman bolster cyber security at Coles?

A: Sackman improved Coles’ cyber security measures to ensure the protection of customer and team member data, facilitating seamless operations both in physical stores and online.

Q: What were Sackman’s prior positions before joining Coles?

A: Prior to joining Coles, Sackman held CIO positions at UK retailers such as John Lewis Partnership, Waitrose, and Argos.

Quick Overview

• Revolutionary cyclone dust disposal feature eliminates bag usage.
• Noteworthy mapping abilities that require little user involvement.
• Adjustable mop for effective cleaning of corners and edges.
• Smart Agent Hosting Mode learns and adjusts to your home’s cleaning needs.
• Works with Google Home for easy voice commands.
• Offered at a competitive price, particularly during sales.

Appearance

The Ecovacs DEEBOT X11 Omni Cyclone is distinguished by its modern black-grey appearance, which integrates effortlessly into any home environment without being obtrusive. Its design avoids a lidar tower, enabling it to slide under furniture with ease. A control button located on top allows for quick access. The premium construction of the body aligns perfectly with its state-of-the-art features, while the extendable mop provides effective cleaning along walls and corners.

Functionality

The X11 Omni Cyclone thrives in mapping, automatically recognizing surfaces accurately without the need for user adjustments. Its cleaning capabilities leave floors immaculate, regardless if they are wood, tile, or carpet. The robot’s smart battery management ensures it continues cleaning after recharging. Nevertheless, it sometimes has difficulty with bath mats, a potential fix for which may come in future software updates.

Specifications

Cyclone Dust Disposal

This distinctive feature enables the robot to eliminate dust into a container without bags, providing a simple and effective cleaning solution. While some dust may stick to a rubber ring, it can be easily removed.

Adjustable Mop

The adjustable mop addresses the frequent issue of cleaning corners and edges in square or rectangular spaces, ensuring thorough cleaning coverage.

Intelligent Hosting Mode

This mode smartly learns the cleaning needs of your home, adjusting its routine to keep everything tidy without needing user interference. Overrides can be activated for greater control.

Voice Activation

With support for Google Home, users can start cleaning tasks using simple voice commands, enhancing ease of access.

Support for Multiple Floors

For homes with multiple levels, the robot can map various floors and function without a dock, making it a flexible option for larger areas.

Challenges and Possibilities

Even though the bath mat issue is minor, future iterations could enhance the dust-canister design to stop manual dust clearance. Hair tangling on the cleaning roller is another aspect that may be improved, potentially through the introduction of cutting blades or redesigned rollers.

Cost and Availability

The DEEBOT X11 Omni Cyclone can be found at major retailers including JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, and Harvey Norman. With a price of $1,987 (down from $2,999), it presents a compelling option, particularly when bundled with accessories or during sales.

• DEEBOT X11 Omni Cyclone: $1,987 (34% discount).
• Accessory Package: $2,063.
• Cleaning solution: two bottles for $75, or a heavy-duty 1L for $37.50.

Conclusion

The Ecovacs DEEBOT X11 Omni Cyclone fulfills its promise of effortless cleaning. Featuring outstanding elements like cyclone dust disposal and smart mapping, it is a significant addition to any household. Despite some minor drawbacks, its performance and pricing render it a competitive option in the robotic vacuum industry, particularly for Australian families in search of convenience.

Recap

The Ecovacs DEEBOT X11 Omni Cyclone sets itself apart with its innovative features and dependable performance. While it has minor imperfections, it provides an appealing solution for those in need of an advanced, easy-to-use robotic vacuum.

Q: What sets the X11 Omni Cyclone apart from other robotic vacuums?

A: Its cyclone dust disposal feature removes the necessity for bags, resulting in a convenient cleaning experience.

Q: How effective is the X11 Omni Cyclone in mapping and cleaning tasks?

A: The robot is proficient in mapping, needing little user interaction, and achieves excellent cleaning outcomes on various surfaces.

Q: Is the X11 Omni Cyclone compatible with voice-activated assistants?

A: Yes, it is compatible with Google Home, enabling users to operate it via voice commands for added ease.

Q: What challenges might arise with the X11 Omni Cyclone?

A: The robot can occasionally have trouble with bath mats, and dust may get stuck in the canister, necessitating manual removal.

Q: Where can I buy the X11 Omni Cyclone, and what is the cost?

A: It is available at JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, Harvey Norman, and others, priced at $1,987 with possible discounts.

Quick Overview

• Craveable Brands investigates AI to enhance customer loyalty and support for franchisees.
• AI agents are capable of resolving customer grievances and assisting franchisees with operational inquiries.
• 95% of AI initiatives fail; Craveable is in search of dependable vendor partners.
• Salesforce tools are utilised to oversee franchisee operations and service integration.
• Data-driven tactics aid franchisees in optimising operations amidst competitive pressures.

AI Improvements in Customer Loyalty and Franchisee Assistance

Craveable Brands, recognised for franchises like Red Rooster and Oporto, is focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance customer loyalty and operational support for franchisees. Chief Information Officer Simon Revelman recently highlighted the potential of AI at the Agentforce World Tour in Sydney, pointing out its “clear” applications within hospitality environments.

For example, AI agents could quickly handle customer issues, such as providing a voucher for cold fries, thereby boosting customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, franchisees might find AI support useful for operational questions, like grasping labour laws or food safety measures.

Reducing Risks through Established Vendor Collaborations

Despite the optimistic outlook, Revelman stressed the necessity of reducing risks linked to AI implementation. Citing that 95% of AI projects do not succeed, he pointed out the need for trustworthy vendor collaborations. Craveable Brands seeks partners capable of showcasing successful AI deployments, delivering a return on investment (ROI) prior to any financial commitments.

Data-Driven Management of Franchisees

Craveable Brands employs Salesforce’s Experience Cloud and Service Cloud to enhance franchisee management. This integration allows franchisees to access vital business data and efficiently oversee operations. For instance, altering store hours automatically syncs with services like Google and Uber Eats, avoiding customer frustration over outdated information.

Enhancing Franchisee Operations

Data analytics is essential in assisting franchisees. By using Tableau and Google Cloud, Craveable Brands equips business advisors with detailed metrics to pinpoint improvement areas for franchisees. This data-focused strategy is crucial in a competitive quick service restaurant (QSR) market, particularly as consumer visits and expenditures decline.

Conclusion

Craveable Brands is investigating AI to enrich customer interactions and enhance franchisee operations. While AI provides substantial advantages, the company remains cautious about its implementation due to notable project failure rates. By forging alliances with skilled vendors and utilizing data-oriented strategies, Craveable Brands aims to retain its competitive position in the QSR sector.

Q: What AI functionalities is Craveable Brands considering?

A: Craveable Brands is evaluating AI agents for improvements in customer service, such as issuing vouchers, and operational support for franchisees.

Q: How is Craveable Brands mitigating risks associated with AI projects?

A: The firm seeks collaborations with vendors who can demonstrate effective AI applications and ROI before any financial investments.

Q: Which technology does Craveable Brands utilise for managing franchisees?

A: Salesforce’s Experience Cloud and Service Cloud are employed to oversee franchisee operations and integrate with different service platforms.

Q: Why is a data-driven approach crucial for Craveable Brands?

A: Data-driven strategies help franchisees optimise their operations and stay competitive in a challenging market characterised by declining customer visits and heightened competition.

Q: What challenges does Craveable Brands encounter in the QSR sector?

A: The company faces a softer market, with diminished customer spending and intensified competition, particularly from players like McDonald’s and Hungry Jack’s.

Brief Overview

• Samsung Galaxy S26 and Buds4 series officially released in Australia.
• Launch of Privacy Display for improved screen security.
• Galaxy AI’s Now Nudges feature makes tasks easier.
• Professional-quality camera with Nightography and 100x zoom capabilities.
• Galaxy Buds4 Pro introduces controls via head gestures.
• Adaptive ANC and EQ for an enhanced audio experience.
• New Galaxy Club provides upgrade benefits.

Privacy Display

This pioneering feature enables users to adjust the screen’s viewing angle to minimize peripheral visibility. It aims to provide Australians with increased security when managing sensitive data in public environments.

Galaxy AI and Now Nudges

Working subtly in the background, Galaxy AI meets user demands by delivering timely suggestions through Now Nudges. These user-friendly features are tailored to simplify intricate tasks for everyone, including those who are not technologically inclined.

Professional Camera System

The S26 series upholds Samsung’s leadership in photography with upgraded Nightography and SuperSteady functionalities. The Ultra version even features an extraordinary 100x camera zoom for instances when close-up detail is essential.

Head Gesture Controls

Featured in the Galaxy Buds4 Pro, this functionality allows users to answer or decline calls with a simple nod or head shake, providing hands-free convenience for those on the go.

Adaptive ANC and EQ

The Buds4 series offers advanced adaptive noise cancelling and an Adaptive Equalizer for reducing low-frequency disturbances. This guarantees a high-quality audio experience that adjusts to your surroundings, whether you are commuting or working out.

“The Samsung Galaxy S26 series sets a new standard for how Australians engage with their smartphones daily. With our first Privacy Display, users have increased control over what they choose to share, while Galaxy AI aids in simplifying complex tasks for everyone – not just tech aficionados.”Nathan Rigger, Head of Product, Mobile eXperience, Samsung Electronics Australia

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy S26 series begins at A$1,549 for the entry-level model, while the powerful S26 Ultra is priced at A$2,949 for the 1TB edition. The Buds4 and Buds4 Pro retail for A$299 and A$399 respectively, available in various colors like Cobalt Violet and Silver Shadow.

For those wishing to stay ahead of the curve, the New Galaxy Club has now been introduced. This program offers up to 50% of the retail price back when upgrading to a next-gen device within 9 to 13 months, including Samsung Care+ for additional coverage.

For additional details, visit https://www.samsung.com/au

Conclusion

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 and Buds4 series have made an impactful debut in the Australian market, focusing on privacy, AI innovations, and professional features. With state-of-the-art technologies such as Privacy Display and Now Nudges, this new lineup is poised to transform user engagement with devices.

Q: What is the Privacy Display feature?

A: Privacy Display enables users to manage the screen’s viewing angle to reduce peripheral visibility, enhancing security in public settings.

Q: How does Galaxy AI’s Now Nudges function?

A: Now Nudges offer timely suggestions to meet user demands, making intricate tasks simpler and improving user experience.

Q: What camera features are available in the Galaxy S26 series?

A: The series features upgraded Nightography, SuperSteady capabilities, and a 100x zoom option for the Ultra model.

Q: What new features do the Galaxy Buds4 Pro offer?

A: They include head gesture controls for hands-free call management and adaptive noise cancelling for excellent audio quality.

Q: What is the New Galaxy Club?

A: It’s a program that offers a refund of up to 50% of the retail price when upgrading to a next-gen device in 9 to 13 months, and includes Samsung Care+ for added security.

Brief Overview

• CIO Julie Bale of EnergyAustralia to retire after almost seven years.
• Eglantine Etiemble, previously CTO at PEXA, named as new CIO.
• Technology is pivotal to the transformation of Australia’s energy landscape.
• Etiemble offers expertise in digital transformation and the integration of AI.
• Bale recognized for her achievements in technology and cyber defense.

Leadership Shift at EnergyAustralia

EnergyAustralia is entering a crucial leadership shift as the long-serving Chief Information Officer (CIO) Julie Bale announces her impending retirement. After nearly seven years of guiding the company’s tech innovations, Bale will be succeeded by Eglantine Etiemble, the prior Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of PEXA.

Eglantine Etiemble Takes Over

Eglantine Etiemble will assume the role of CIO at EnergyAustralia, bringing extensive expertise from her time at PEXA and DuluxGroup. Enthusiastic about her new position, Etiemble shared her thoughts on LinkedIn, emphasizing the essential role the energy sector plays in Australia and the important part technology will have in its evolution.

Julie Bale’s Impact and Legacy

Throughout her tenure at EnergyAustralia, Julie Bale made remarkable progress in updating the company’s technology infrastructure and fortifying its cyber resilience. Her leadership cultivated a culture of collaboration among technology and business teams, fundamentally altering operational methods. Bale will continue to work with the company until July to facilitate a seamless transition.

The Horizon for EnergyAustralia

Mark Collette, EnergyAustralia’s Managing Director, expressed trust in Etiemble’s capability to guide the company’s technological strategy. He highlighted the significance of technology and data as vital enablers for enhancing customer experiences and aiding the national energy transition. Etiemble’s proficiency in digital transformation, platform upgrades, and AI implementation is anticipated to propel the next stage of development for EnergyAustralia.

Conclusion

EnergyAustralia is poised for a strategic transformation with the retirement of CIO Julie Bale and the elevation of Eglantine Etiemble. As the energy sector experiences a digital transition, Etiemble’s background and vision position her as a significant player in navigating this crucial phase for the company and the industry at large.

Q: Who has been appointed as the new CIO of EnergyAustralia?

A: Eglantine Etiemble, the former CTO of PEXA, has been designated as the new CIO of EnergyAustralia.

Q: What qualifications does Eglantine Etiemble have?

A: Etiemble brings experience in digital transformation, platform upgrades, and AI integration from her previous roles at PEXA and DuluxGroup.

Q: What notable contributions did Julie Bale make during her time?

A: Julie Bale significantly enhanced EnergyAustralia’s technological edge, boosted cyber resilience, and established a collaborative work framework.

Q: Why is technology important for EnergyAustralia’s future?

A: Technology and data are vital for enhancing customer experiences, optimizing energy assets, and supporting the national energy transition.

Brief Overview

• Victoria launches daily fuel price ceiling for enhanced transparency.
• Servo Saver application aids consumers in locating the lowest fuel prices nearby.
• Retailers are obliged to set prices by 2:00 PM each day.
• Price ceilings come into effect from 6:00 AM the next day.
• Geolocation feature offers real-time price information.
• Compulsory reporting guarantees precise and trustworthy data.

Victoria’s Commitment to Fuel Price Transparency

The State Government of Victoria is committed to advocating for consumer rights with the introduction of the Servo Saver system, a real-time fuel price analysis service aimed at providing drivers with the most cost-effective petrol alternatives available in their vicinity. As of March 10, 2026, the second phase of this program has been implemented, launching a daily fuel price ceiling to minimize price volatility and enhance transparency.

Daily Price Ceilings for Improved Planning

Retailers are now required to confirm a maximum fuel price for the subsequent day by 2:00 PM. These rates are then published by 4:00 PM and are fixed for a 24-hour period, commencing at 6:00 AM the following morning. This regulation seeks to ease the financial strain of fuel expenses on households and facilitate better refueling choices.

Servo Saver: A Resource for Savvy Consumers

The Servo Saver platform is effortlessly integrated into the Service Victoria framework, removing the necessity for additional app installations. It utilizes geolocation to showcase real-time fuel prices at nearby service stations, enabling users to sort results by fuel categories such as E10, Unleaded 95, Unleaded 98, and Diesel. The intuitive layout is crafted for quick access, making it a useful resource for those in a rush.

Guaranteeing Data Precision Through Compulsory Reporting

The foundation of Servo Saver’s credibility is its statutory reporting obligation for fuel outlets. Stations must update the platform with any alterations in pricing, providing a trustworthy “source of truth” for consumers. This legislative action diminishes information disparities, ensuring everyday consumers have equal access to pricing data as major fuel retailers.

“We know that fuel represents one of the largest weekly expenditures for families in Victoria, and Servo Saver is about providing them with the insights necessary to secure the best value.” — Jacinta Allan, Premier of Victoria.

Conclusion

The Victorian Government’s establishment of a daily fuel price ceiling via the Servo Saver system marks a crucial advancement towards greater transparency and consumer empowerment. By enforcing timely and accurate fuel pricing reporting, this initiative enables drivers to make educated choices and potentially reduce their fuel costs.

Q: What is the Servo Saver platform?

A: The Servo Saver platform is a real-time fuel price analysis service incorporated into Service Victoria, aimed at assisting motorists in locating the most affordable local petrol options.

Q: How does the daily fuel price ceiling work?

A: Retailers are required to establish a maximum fuel price by 2:00 PM daily. The price is disclosed by 4:00 PM and is fixed for 24 hours starting at 6:00 AM the next day.

Q: How can I access Servo Saver?

A: Servo Saver is available through the Service Victoria platform, which employs geolocation to present real-time fuel pricing at neighboring stations.

Q: What types of fuel can I check on Servo Saver?

A: Users can view prices categorized by fuel types including E10, Unleaded 95, Unleaded 98, and Diesel.

Q: Why was compulsory reporting introduced?

A: Compulsory reporting guarantees that fuel price information is up-to-date and reliable, mitigating misinformation and enhancing consumer empowerment.

Q: How does this initiative benefit motorists?

A: By delivering transparent and current pricing, motorists can make informed choices, potentially saving money and lessening the impact of fuel expenses on household finances.

Quick Read

• TPG Telecom and Optus are contesting Telstra’s assertions regarding mobile coverage mapping with ACMA.
• The discussion centers on the signal strength benchmarks for assessing usable coverage.
• Telstra advocates for a lower benchmark of -122dBm, while competitors back ACMA’s -115dBm standard.
• ACMA’s revised standard seeks to enhance consumer awareness of mobile coverage.
• Potential legal and regulatory consequences could arise from the updated mapping criteria.
• The industry is encouraged to achieve an agreement before the standard is enacted.

Coverage Mapping Debate Intensifies

TPG Telecom and Optus are disputing Telstra’s claims regarding the usability of mobile services in regions with less robust signal strengths. This controversy is escalating as the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) introduces new mapping standards for mobile coverage.

Signal Thresholds at the Center

ACMA’s draft suggests that regions with signal strengths lower than -115dBm should not be categorized as having usable service. Telstra, however, advocates for a lower benchmark of -122dBm, a position that TPG Telecom and Optus oppose.

Telstra’s Marketing Claims Under Examination

TPG Telecom accuses Telstra of overstating its coverage, asserting it encompasses areas where mobile services may be unreliable. Both Optus and TPG support ACMA’s proposed threshold, arguing that it better reflects the accurate portrayal of usable coverage.

ACMA Clarifies Its Justification

ACMA’s -115dBm threshold is grounded in international standards and the National Audit of Mobile Coverage (NAMC) initiative. This standard is designed to produce clearer coverage maps with designations for good, moderate, usable, and no coverage.

Possible Customer Misunderstanding

Telstra contends that ACMA’s methodology could mislead consumers, influencing their choices regarding service plans and usage. The carrier points out that a significant number of its customers depend on coverage that falls below the -115dBm threshold.

Optus Backs -115dBm Benchmark

Optus maintains that the -115dBm benchmark is the minimal level at which consumers can anticipate a dependable mobile experience. It opposes any lower threshold, believing it could misrepresent the reliability of coverage.

Telstra’s UOMO Concerns

Telstra expresses apprehensions that the new standard might conflict with upcoming Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO) legislation, which mandates providing coverage over wide areas and may rely on satellite systems.

Industry Encouraged to Find Common Ground

TPG Telecom and Optus are advocating for additional industry discussions ahead of finalizing the new standard, expected to be completed by the month’s end. ACMA aims to enforce the standard by June 30.

Summary

The discussion surrounding mobile coverage mapping in Australia sees TPG Telecom and Optus disputing Telstra’s proposal for a diminished signal strength threshold. With ACMA’s new standard on the horizon, industry participants are urged to achieve consensus for clarity and precision in representation of coverage.

Questions and Answers

Q: What is the primary concern between TPG Telecom, Optus, and Telstra?

A: The central issue is the signal strength threshold that defines usable mobile service coverage, with Telstra supporting a lower threshold compared to its competitors.

Q: Why does Telstra seek a lower threshold?

A: Telstra contends that a lower threshold accurately reflects regions where its network can still deliver usable service despite weaker signals.

Q: What goal does ACMA’s proposed standard aim to fulfill?

A: The standard aims to deliver more precise and customer-friendly mobile coverage maps by establishing a clear signal strength threshold.

Q: How may the new standard affect Telstra?

A: If passed, the new standard could restrict Telstra’s claimed coverage area, influencing its marketing strategies and possibly leading to legal disputes.

Q: What does the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO) entail?

A: UOMO is pending legislation that mandates major carriers to ensure mobile services are available across extensive territories, potentially utilizing satellite technology.

Q: Why do TPG Telecom and Optus support the -115dBm threshold?

A: They assert it accurately reflects dependable mobile service and prevents deceptive coverage representations.

Q: What potential impacts on consumers might the new standard have?

A: The standard could enhance consumer comprehension of mobile coverage, but Telstra cautions it might also create confusion if representations change drastically.