Digital reformation of the school curriculum

The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) has released its Federal Government Pre-Budget and Pre-Election Policy Submission 2022, urging a stronger focus on Australian innovation and emerging technologies.

One of the key recommendations relates to Australia’s Skills Agenda, suggesting that the Australian Curriculum needs to prioritise the digital economy and Industry 5.0 capabilities for primary and secondary school students.

After two years of strong development and investment in ICT spurred by the global pandemic, Australia has reached a crossroads in innovation and technology advancement. The nation has an opportunity to embrace digital technologies and to support a truly digital economy, or otherwise — risk squandering existing progress and being overtaken by other economies.

According to the Global Innovation Index, Australia ranks 25th in the world for development, innovation and advancement despite being the 13th largest economy globally. This is evidence that there is still a significant amount of work to be done to harness Australian economic possibilities and the government’s stated goal to be a leading digital economy by 2030.

The AIIA’s Federal Government Pre-Budget and Pre-Election Policy Submission 2022 details 24 key recommendations that ensure Australia meets federal government objectives to become part of the top-three global digital governments by 2025. Whilst the 2021 Budget included strong investment in ICT, including $124 million in AI funding, the government is still holding the majority of this funding, failing to quickly transition to execution within the sector.

“This is a time for our political leaders to show that they truly understand the benefits that can be derived from a commitment to and support for Australia’s ICT sector. The growth in ICT is unlimited. It delivers jobs, economic growth, global competitiveness and it protects Australia’s core industries,” said AIIA CEO Ron Gauci.

“Our geographic location is no restriction on our growth potential. Australia has the opportunity to be a globally leading digital economy, but this is the time for the government to act and support the sector through significant policy initiatives. Given the global trends and how rapidly we are falling behind, this must be the year our federal government shows its full support for the ICT sector to achieve the economic benefits on offer. Our industry is full of organisations with the appetite and commercial experience to respond if it can see tangible support from government.”

Australia currently experiences a significant labour gap of 60,000 ICT workers annually, related to supply and demand post-pandemic. Therefore, building a capable workforce is vital to achieving economic prosperity. With international borders reopening, placing a renewed focus on ICT skills is central to fostering 1.1 million ICT jobs in Australia by 2026. Further, supporting the development of skills, beginning in schools through to upskilling our existing workforce, needs to be a priority for Australia.

“Advancing key areas of the digital economy, such as quantum, digital engineering, industry incentives and cybersecurity is critical. Australia must prioritise these innovative technologies in our critical industries to ensure we are globally competitive. For example, quantum computing offers strong opportunities for Australia to lead, but there is still no national strategy,” said AIIA General Manager of Public Policy Simon Bush.

“Now is the time for the federal government to act swiftly, support our innovative technologies, activate a full-scale national strategy and in turn, become a leading digital economy by 2030.”

To view the full set of recommendations by industry, visit: Federal Government Pre-Budget and Pre-Election Policy Submission 2022.

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