Data#3 moves emergency services infrastructure to the cloud in Australian-first

Data#3 has used its Azure cloud expertise to deliver a landmark solution for the Victoria State Emergency Service.

The Brisbane-headquartered IT giant announced it has deployed a hybrid cloud solution, including Microsoft’s public cloud, within Vic SES.

Vic SES is the first emergency services organisation in Australia to entrust its core infrastructure to a cloud-based solution, according to Data#3.

“The new platform enables Vic SES to be more agile and efficient in responding to critical incidents and emergencies, whether it’s bushfires, floods, storms, road rescues or search and rescue operations,” the company said.

“Data#3 was chosen as Vic SES’s preferred partner primarily due to their Microsoft capabilities and Azure expertise, as well as their experience in the Victorian emergency management landscape, where several agencies entrust their critical infrastructure to them.”

The contract, whose value was not disclosed, also includes a three-year support plan for managed services.

Vic SES information services manager Andrew Ferrarese said the deployment would make it easier for emergency personnel to do their job.

“The new technology gives our people in the field quick and easy access to our systems, which is so important when it comes to reporting incidents and emergency information,” he said.

“Whether it’s providing location data for response coordination or assessing potential threats, our new ICT environment plays a crucial role in minimising risk to the community.”

Data#3 chief executive Laurence Baynham said the firm was proud to help Vic SES.

“Our vision is to harness the power of people and technology for a better future – and this is a great example of our expertise making a difference in our communities,” he said.

Data#3 posted revenues of $506 million for the six months to 31 December 2016, a 10.6 percent increase on the previous year.