Curtis West

Significant news for the defence sector! 13 companies have been awarded a total of $827,000 in funding from the Victorian Government under the Supply Chain Uplift Program (SCUP). This initiative, offering matched co-funded grants of up to $100,000, aims to enhance the competitiveness of manufacturers associated with Hanwha Defence Australia's supply chain. The funding will support critical projects, including system upgrades, industry accreditations, and research and development. Benefitting companies include Amiga Engineering Pty Ltd, Anywise Consulting, Brockman Engineering, Copamate , Corvus Technology Solutions, Diamond Defence Pty Ltd, Electric Motor Power, NanoCube, Parish Engineering Co. Pty. Ltd, Secure Bits, Sutton Tools Pty Ltd, Tickford Racing and an undisclosed company. Dean Michie, Acting Managing Director of Hanwha Defence Australia, highlighted the significance of this collaboration in uplifting the capabilities of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within the defence sector across Australia. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ggk_grPq #DefenceIndustry #SupplyChainUplift #SMEdevelopment #DefenceInnovation #SCUP

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Quick block post about code quality. https://lnkd.in/g74FWEbT #spreadsheetsurgeons #spreadsheets #excel #adelaide #codequality

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This week on “This Is Fine”, we simplify the ATO process using a relatable analogy: buying a car. Just like you wouldn't purchase a new car without weighing the goals vs the risks, the government needs to assess security risks before giving the green light to any system. Join Matthew T., CEO, and Chris Sowards - CISSP, a GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance) expert at Hunter Strategy, as they discuss the differences in ATO processes between government agencies, how organizations handle risk tolerance, and the challenges companies face, from non-essential controls to compliance culture. And of course, we'll also tackle the headaches of FedRAMP accreditation and the unique challenges software vendors face. If you're curious about government security, selling to the government, or just want to untangle the ATO process maze, this episode is a must. Tune in now! #GovernmentSecurity #ATO #Podcast #Cybersecurity Watch the recording on our YouTube Channel: https://lnkd.in/g4c3gkfc  Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gMCqiCYD  Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/gX_dAApT  YouTube Music: https://lnkd.in/gTW5GP8G  Amazon Music: https://lnkd.in/g2jHfRpG 

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The report on our 5-yearly review of the Information Publication Scheme (IPS) shows continued commitment across Australian Government agencies to increasing open access to information. - More agencies (94%) reviewed the operation of the IPS in their agency than in 2018 (82%). - 78% of agencies have appointed a senior executive officer to lead the agency's work on compliance with the IPS, up slightly from 76% in 2018 (but down from 93% in 2012). - 90% of agencies have published an IPS plan on their website. - Over 70% of agencies said they publish each of the required types of information on their website. - More agencies indicated they don’t charge for information required or permitted to be published under the IPS (82%, up from 73% in 2018 and 68% in 2012). Read the report: https://lnkd.in/gy89pVEy While some of the results show continued commitment, a concerted effort is required by agencies to support proactive release of information. Over the coming weeks, we’ll be spotlighting areas for agencies to focus on to improve access to information. #AccessToInformation #FreedomOfInformation #FOI

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Curious about New Zealand’s migration trends? Explore the data yourself! Do you want to understand how NZ’s migration story is evolving through data? With MBIE’s Migration Data Explorer (MDE), you can access comprehensive up-to-date migration statistics at your fingertips. Whether you’re a policymaker, researcher or just someone interested in how migration is shaping the future of New Zealand, this interactive tool has what you need. The MDE offers: ·       A single interface that its easy to explore migration statistics. ·       A framework that goes beyond visa numbers, helping you analyse migration’s impact on population and the labour market. ·       Customisable views, allowing you to explore visa and application types and more, all updated with the latest information from Immigration New Zealand. Recently refreshed with September 2024 data, the MDE offers a unique opportunity to stay informed of migration trends. Check out the Migration Data Explorer today, and start uncovering insights that matter to you: https://lnkd.in/grPAZyyj. #Migrationdatadomain #MDE #ExcellentMahi Veronica Kletzkin, Peter Campion, Andrew Hoy

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💡 Curious about the future of the Australian Defence sector? If your business is focused on aligning with Defence priorities, reducing time-to-sale, or accelerating growth, this is a must-attend event. Our Free Webinar is designed for decision-makers eager to position their organisations for success in the evolving defence landscape of 2025-2027. When: Thursday, 14 November Time: 10am - 11am (AEDT) Register Here: https://hubs.li/Q02WWcPx0 What you’ll learn: 👉 Defence priorities, policies, and budgets for 2025-2027 👉 How to decrease time-to-sale 👉 Actionable steps to boost your business’s growth #DefenceIndustry #BusinessGrowth #AustralianDefence #Strategy #Webinar #ADROITA #DefenceSector #FutureProofYourBusiness

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The DTA's Annual Report for 2023-24 outlines our efforts to support the government's digital transformation. We've made significant strides in strategic leadership, advice, and oversight for digital and ICT investments. Key highlights include: - Implementing the Data and Digital Government Strategy - Delivering the Investment Oversight Framework for government digital and ICT investments - Providing guidance on AI, digital experience, and project assurance - Collaborating with government and industry stakeholders - Ranking 5th in the OECD’s Digital Government Index 2023 We've strengthened digital investment oversight and built trust among Australians using digital government services by adopting new methods and refining governance. View more information here: https://lnkd.in/g8G2fvzi

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AI for Government | As AI becomes more present in so many aspects of our work, concerns about governance and data security are front of mind. Our AI expert, Ryan Darby, shares his thoughts on the recently published National Framework for AI in government 👇

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📣 Applications for the Defence Industry Development Grant (DIDG) program open tomorrow and will remain continuously open. Eligible Australian businesses can begin preparing an application to any of the four streams which include Sovereign Industrial Priorities, Exports, Skilling, and Security. The Defence Industry Development Grant program provides up to $39 million per year until mid-2028 to support small or medium sized Australian businesses operating in the defence sector to enhance their capabilities, capacity and security posture. Initial batch opportunities for the Exports and Skilling streams will close on 31 July 2024 and initial batch opportunities for the Sovereign Industrial Priorities and Security streams will close on 31 August 2024. For more information and to apply: https://lnkd.in/gBWgKnaf

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“In a world of rapid economic change and heightened strategic competition, investing in modern defence industries serves our economic and national security interests,” Treasurer Jim Chalmers said in his budget announcement last night. The defence budget papers enhance the recently released IIP and strategy paper with a significant ramp up in spending on maritime projects including nuclear submarines, warships and their infrastructure. The clear focus on maritime spending is illustrated with the stand outs being: • $2.8 billion in 2024-25 for the nuclear sub program • $813 million for the Hunter-class frigate project • $587 million for the Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels • $81.9 million to support shipbuilding jobs • $166.2 million over five years to support small and medium businesses and local defence industry as part of the Defence Industry Development Strategy • $28 million to implement reforms under the Defence Trade Controls Amendment Act 2024 • $232.3 million for international military support, including $144.3 million for Ukraine. Unfortunately there were few new announcements on equipment and program priorities, with further clarification to come during the upcoming industry forums such as LEWG, Land Forces, and with a closer look at the Portfolio Budget Statements over the coming days to examine what opportunities are likely to come to market in the near term. #DefenceIndustry #DefenceCapability #DefenceConsulting #2024Budget

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The Digital Marketplace makes it easier for government buyers and suppliers to connect. It streamlines the process for local businesses who want to provide products and services to the Victorian Government. Our team and our partners are constantly working to add new contracts and registers and to improve the Digital Marketplace experience. Take a look at the video below for an overview of what the Digital Marketplace is all about.

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The Federal Government has announced $21 billion of new funding initiatives under the Future Made in Australia Act strategic framework. Federal Budget include: A new $7 billion critical minerals value-adding Production Tax Credit (PTC). $3.2 billion additional funding for ARENA technology commercialisation. A $6.7 billion hydrogen production tax incentive and $1.3 billion of additional hydrogen headstart funding. $209m into the Net Zero economy authority. $168m to prioritise approval decisions for renewable projects of national significance. $500m Battery Breakthrough Initiative. $14m to strengthen high-quality critical minerals benchmarks with trade partners. $179m in additional employment & skills supports for regions. $56m in Building Women’s Careers program. $91m to accelerate the development of the clean energy workforce and to expanding the New Energy Apprenticeship Program. $777m for strong First Nations workforce participation & development. This is Australia’s biggest investment, employment, and export opportunity in a century to reorient from our fossil fuel-reliant past.

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Data privacy—what's your take? The IRD is one of many government agencies using social media platforms to reach its customers. It is currently reviewing its data-sharing practices following privacy concerns raised by US and European regulators about using consumer data for targeted advertising on social media platforms like Facebook and Google. Despite their data being "hashed" to ensure privacy, Teaching Fellow and PhD candidate Kent Newman argues that, as the practice becomes more widespread, the government should consider privacy when using advertising tools and give Kiwis the opportunity to choose how their information is used. Read more online: https://bit.ly/3MBNQey #FacultyOfLaw Victoria University of Wellington #DataPrivacy

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Artificial Intelligence Governance I'd like to share the suite of new AI Governance resources for directors, at https://lnkd.in/g8Usg3Xr, produced by the AICD in partnership with the Human Technology Institute (HTI) at the University of Technology, Sydney. The new director resources are: - a Director’s Introduction to AI which aims to build knowledge of key concepts and issues; - the AICD's Director’s Guide to AI Governance which outlines eight elements of safe and responsible AI governance; - a concise Snapshot of the ‘Eight elements of safe and responsible AI governance’; and - a SME and NFP governance checklist. The resources have been informed by consultation with directors, including a Director Reference Group, industry experts (including Microsoft and the National AI Centre at CSIRO) and regulators. 

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ICYMI - How the private sector adds value to government data   Many New Zealand Local and Central Government agencies do a great job of providing free public access to the data they collect and create. But what value can private sector data companies add to public data?   Although this post was written some time ago and NationalMap’s road attribute data has since been enhanced with layers such as our 3D Road dataset, its message remains evergreen. The core message is that by concentrating on real-world, commercial use cases, private sector data companies can significantly enhance the value of publicly available data. #GIS #nzroads #geospatialdata https://lnkd.in/gggnApnQ

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Article | Technological advancements, economic reform, political and regulatory impacts, and workforce dynamics have all played a role in shaping the Australian Public Sector. As a result, there has been a shift towards innovation, challenging traditional approaches and mindsets. This new focus has allowed public sector organisations to adapt to current and future landscapes, unlocking their potential for growth and success. In this article, Srinath Vitanage suggests several ways to harness this potential, encouraging a shift towards innovative thinking and efficiency in the public sector. Key takeaways include encouraging a culture of innovation, adopting agile project management techniques, leveraging technology for efficiency, and prioritising data-driven decision-making. It's time to break down silos, engage experts, and focus on outcomes to drive success. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/evFhhM3M #HKA #Innovation #PublicSectorTransformation

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Unleash the Power of Apps: How Entivel Can Propel Your Business Forward ? In today's digital world, a user-friendly and impactful app isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. At Entivel, we're your trusted partner in crafting custom web and mobile applications that drive real business results. Here's why you should choose Entivel for your next app project: 1. Tailored Solutions, Big Impact: We ditch the one-size-fits-all approach. Our experienced developers work closely with you to understand your specific business goals, target audience, and unique challenges. We leverage cutting-edge technologies like Spring Boot, .NET, React, and Angular to tailor an app that perfectly addresses your needs. Imagine an app that streamlines internal processes for boosted efficiency or a customer-facing app that simplifies interactions, leading to increased brand loyalty and engagement. 2. AI for an Intelligent User Experience: We go beyond building apps; we build intelligent applications. Our team integrates advanced AI features to create a more interactive and engaging experience for your users. Here are just a few examples: a. Personalized product recommendations: Imagine an app that suggests relevant products to each user based on their browsing history and purchase patterns, leading to higher conversion rates. b. Smart chatbots: Implement 24/7 customer support with chatbots that can answer basic queries and resolve simple issues, freeing up your human team for complex interactions. c. Intelligent search: Ensure users can easily find what they're looking for with a powerful and intuitive search function powered by AI. 3. Effortless Automation and Integration: Does your business rely on multiple platforms or databases? We'll expertly connect these systems through API integration, streamlining data flow and eliminating manual work. We can also automate repetitive tasks within your app, saving you valuable time and resources. 4. Agile Development & Transparent Communication: Staying informed is crucial. We adhere to a proven agile development methodology for regular communication and clear milestones. You'll always be in the loop with the opportunity to provide feedback as your app takes shape. 5. Results You Can Measure: We're passionate about delivering measurable results. We'll work with you to define key performance indicators (KPIs) and track your app's impact on business goals. Whether it's increased customer engagement, improved conversion rates, or enhanced operational efficiency, we're committed to your success. Ready to transform your business with a cutting-edge app? Let Quantum Interface be your partner in innovation. Contact us today for a free consultation! #MobileAppDevelopment #WebDevelopment #AI #BusinessGrowth #Entivel Website: www.entivel.com

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The Australian Institute of Company Directors has released this succinct and useful guide for company Directors who seek to understand the risks related to the implementation and use of AI within their organisations, as well as the extent to which such implementation and use cuts across their Director's duties under the Corporations Act. Primarily, the guide makes the point that traditional IT governance frameworks are likely inadequate to deal with the fast-moving, nascent and somewhat unpredictable nature of AI technologies, and that AI needs almost bespoke treatment. Whereas traditional software is designed to produce defined outputs based on pre-determined rules, AI has a far greater level of autonomy and opacity (in terms of how it works), as well as a lack of explicit programming, in most cases. All of this can lead to AI behaviours that are unexpected, unpredictable and may give rise to legal, regulatory, commercial and reputational risk for organisations and their Boards, and so it is critical that Boards understand, and pay due deference to these risks. Another interesting point that isn't emphasised to any great degree, but which I think is highly relevant to any organisation's AI-related deliberations, relates to the range of risks that an organisation may face by choosing not to adopt AI, including: - the loss market competitiveness, possibly because of a diminished ability to ideate new product and service offerings at scale and pace; - higher run costs and diminished efficiency via not leveraging the process improvement and automation that AI can provide; - poorer customer service outcomes; and - talent acquisition and retention challenges due to organisations not being seen to be at the 'cutting edge'. Also, let's not forget that, in all likelihood, employees are already using AI in their roles - so the question for organisations and their Directors then becomes; "do we sanction its use and control it by internal policies and robust governance controls, or do we leave our employees free to use these tools and potentially expose us to organisational risk?" (that will ultimately become a Board problem). For any organisation thinking about adopting AI into its business processes, or for Directors seeking to understand the risks and the extent to which their Director's duties intersect with AI adoption, give this paper a read. Of course, Clayton Utz is also well placed to advise any organisation in relation to AI adoption and implementation, including the design and implementation of AI governance controls.

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