DTA and AIIA: reinforcing government and industry collaboration

The DTA and the Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) have signed a new two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), continuing a relationship first formalised in 2018.

The agreement expands the range of activities supported under the partnership, providing greater flexibility in how government and industry share expertise and collaborate on key digital priorities.

“Our partnership with the AIIA has become a cornerstone of how we engage with Australia’s technology industry,” explains Mr Chris Fechner, Chief Executive Officer, DTA.

“Technology is evolving more rapidly than ever, and strong industry engagement is critical to help us understand how the landscape is evolving, where capability is growing and what that means for government.”

“Since 2018, our partnership with the AIIA has helped bring government and industry together to share expertise and inform the priorities shaping Australia's digital future.”

Expanding the partnership

The new MoU extends the range of activities supported under the partnership, including: 

• Early consultation on emerging technologies and digital priorities
• Strategic alignment on digital sourcing and whole-of-government capabilities
• Market intelligence, research and industry insights
• Workforce capability and skills development

A stronger focus on early consultation will provide greater opportunities for industry to contribute its expertise as government navigates emerging digital priorities. 

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

“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,” continues Mr Fechner.

Connecting government and industry

The DTA and AIIA bring government and industry together through roundtables, showcases and other joint activities. These forums provide practical opportunities to exchange perspectives, test ideas and build a shared understanding of digital priorities.

The DTA will continue to support the annual AIIA iAwards, which showcase innovative Australian technology solutions and celebrate the organisations driving digital innovation across the sector.

“Strong digital government depends on meaningful engagement between government and the industry that helps deliver it. 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,” highlights Ms Izzy Whitelock, Chief Executive Officer, 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.” 

Looking ahead

The renewed partnership builds on eight years of collaboration between the DTA and AIIA, supporting continued engagement between government and industry on Australia’s digital priorities.