DTA and AIIA renew MoU to deepen government and industry collaboration

The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) and the Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) have signed a new two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), renewing a formal partnership that dates to 2018.

The renewed agreement expands the range of activities the two organisations can undertake together, aiming to provide greater flexibility in how government and industry share expertise across key digital priorities.

New focus areas under the MoU include early consultation on emerging technologies, strategic alignment on digital sourcing and whole-of-government capabilities, market intelligence and research, and workforce capability and skills development.

The agreement also places greater emphasis on engaging a broader cross-section of the technology sector, specifically including small to medium businesses, through existing and future joint activities.

"Our partnership with the AIIA has become a cornerstone of how we engage with Australia's technology industry," said Chris Fechner, chief executive officer at the DTA.

"This next chapter builds on that strong foundation. By broadening the ways we work together, we can draw on industry expertise at the right time to inform and drive better-informed decision making across government."

"This renewed MoU creates more opportunities for our members to contribute their expertise and insights, while helping government and industry navigate the priorities and challenges ahead,” said Izzy Whitelock, chief executive officer at AIIA.

“We particularly welcome the increased focus on SMEs. Ensuring more Australian technology businesses are represented in these conversations helps government draw on the depth of capability and innovation across Australia’s technology ecosystem.”