Australia Requires Enhancement in AI and Cybersecurity Expertise, According to New Findings
Australian Technology Sector: A Roadmap for the Future
The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has released the tenth edition of its ACS Digital Pulse report, offering a comprehensive forecast of the technology sector's future in Australia. The report, launched by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles on October 22, 2024, highlights the significant contribution of the IT sector to the Australian economy, with operations contributing $124 billion in FY23.
In the report, Australia's technology workforce passed the one million mark in 2024, growing by 60% since 2014. The ACS President, Helen McHugh, stated that the report is a roadmap for the future and a wake-up call for the challenges that need to be addressed to remain competitive in the global digital economy.
The report identifies 1.1 million workers with similar skills or experience to technology roles, suggesting that these workers could support tech workforce growth. However, it also emphasises the critical shortages in cybersecurity skills, with demand set to double by 2030.
To address these growth needs, the report outlines 12 key actions across four areas: reskilling workers, diversifying, engaging the next generation of tech talent, and supporting the responsible use of artificial intelligence. The report stresses the need to encourage more people in the group of 1.1 million identified workers to join the tech workforce.
One of the proposed solutions is offering a earn while you learn wage subsidy for those looking to reskill into technology careers during their career. The report also suggests a parents information campaign to help parents understand opportunities in tech and what skills their children should learn to unlock that future.
The adoption of artificial intelligence in Australia is falling behind international competitors, and the report emphasises the importance of ensuring the Australian workforce is equipped to handle rapid advancements in AI and cybersecurity. The report reiterates ACS's commitment to advocating for policies and initiatives that support a strong, diverse, and future-ready tech workforce.
Despite a surge in domestic students choosing IT studies during the pandemic, enrolments have now dropped, with a 10% decline in 2022. Over the past decade, Digital Pulse has shown that people reskilling or upskilling mid-career has been a significant source of tech talent.
The actions proposed in the report include reskilling workers, increasing diversity, engaging the next generation of tech talent, and supporting the responsible use of AI. However, the exact individual or organization proposing these twelve steps is not specified in the provided search results.
In conclusion, the ACS Digital Pulse report provides a valuable roadmap for the future of the Australian technology sector, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By implementing the proposed solutions, Australia can ensure a strong, diverse, and future-ready tech workforce, ready to meet the demands of the global digital economy.
Read also:
- Auto Industry Update: Geotab, C2A, Deloitte, NOVOSENSE, Soracom, and Panasonic in Focus
- Preparations Underway for the 2022 FIFA World Cup: Impact on Sports Betting Industry
- Russia's harmful cyber operations, directed at the UK, face strong criticism from Estonia
- Health Risk Warning: The Harmful Effects of Sitting Too Much, Exploring Sedentary Lifestyles
