Having joined Ackama Group recently as Head of Government and Enterprise, I visited the Tech In Gov 2024 conference for a productive and insightful experience. The sessions were particularly engaging, covering a wide range of topics crucial to the future of technology in government.

‘Navigating Change: Leadership in the Era of Digital Transformation’ – Tech In Gov 2024 at Canberra

Here are some of my key highlights from the conference:

1. Quantum Industry

Michele Graham’s presentation on shaping Australia’s quantum industry, which provided a comprehensive overview of the strategic initiatives underway in the quantum sector.

2. Latest Trends and Challenges

The iTnews Public Sector Tech Report launch offered valuable insights from industry leaders like Velvet-Belle Templeman and Peter O’Halloran, discussing the latest trends and challenges in public sector technology.

3. Leadership in Transformation

The panel on digital transformation, featuring speakers from various government departments, emphasized the importance of leadership in navigating change.

4. Innovation within Policy and Culture

Sessions on digitising national policies and design systems in the public sector showcased innovative approaches to policy implementation and cultural change.

5. Networking Sessions

The networking sessions were a fantastic opportunity to connect with exhibitors and fellow attendees. It was great to catch up with colleagues and meet new professionals in the industry. These informal interactions provided a platform to exchange ideas, discuss session takeaways, and explore potential collaborations.

Digital Transformation within Government

Tech In Gov 2024, Canberra

To close out my time at Tech In Gov, I attended the fireside chat “Achieving Better Outcomes When Procuring Through BuyICT.gov.au Marketplaces and Panel Arrangements”. This fascinating session featured Sabrina King from the Department of Finance, Anthony Conway, and Amy Broadhurst from the Digital Transformation Agency. Given the importance of government opportunities for Ackama to fulfil my role as Head of Government and Enterprise, insights from this session were critical. The current state of the Digital Marketplace refresh evaluation has placed significant pressure on organisations, especially those submitting for the first time or seeking appointments to new categories.

Since its inception, the Marketplace has maintained an always-open panel, but it was closed to new applicants and additional category applications in May 2023 for a total refresh, initially expected to be completed by July this year. Extending the closure until January 2025 due to unprecedented submissions further denies access for a total of 1.5 years, counter to the sentiment expressed during the chat about creating greater access. We look forward to the return of an open marketplace soon to continue to drive forward digital transformation in the government sector.

Overall, Tech In Gov 2024 was an enriching experience, combining informative sessions with valuable networking opportunities.