Media Release - ACS welcomes budget recovery plan
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ACS, the professional association for Australia’s technology sector, today welcomed the Federal government’s 2020 budget, saying it lays the foundation for a technology led recovery.
Andrew Johnson, ACS Chief Executive Officer said “ACS is delighted to see the recognition of the importance of technology professionals in Australia’s recovery from the COVID-19 downturn with the emphasis on IT and cybersecurity in this year’s budget.
“The 50,000 new higher education short courses which include IT subjects is an important part of addressing skill shortages across the Australian economy.
“Coupled with this, the announcement of $240m to support female cadetships and apprenticeships in science, technology, engineering and mathematics will go some way to address the under-representation of women in the ICT sector.
“Along with the measures announced last week in last week’s advanced manufacturing and Digital Business plans, the budget lays firm foundations for a tech led recovery.”
Key measures affecting the IT sector in this year’s budget include.
· An additional $1.2 billion to create 100,000 new apprenticeships and traineeships, with a 50 per cent wage subsidy for employers.
· 50,000 new higher education short courses in agriculture, health, IT, science and teaching
· $240 million in measures and programs to support cadetships and apprenticeships for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics
· Budget will see a total $1.7 billion invested in the cyber-security plan to keep Australians safe and secure online.
· $22.1 million to establish the Australian 5G Innovation Initiative investing in commercial trials and testbeds in key industry sectors including agriculture, mining, logistics and manufacturing
· $39.4 million in new funding for the eSafety Commissioner to continue its work protecting Australians from online harms.
Director of Corporate Affairs and Public Policy
ACS is the professional association for Australia's technology sector. More than 50,000 ACS members work in business, education, government and the community. ACS exists to create the environment and provide the opportunities for members and partners to succeed. ACS strives technology professionals to be recognised as drivers of innovation in our society, relevant across all sectors, and to promote the formulation of effective policies on technology and related matters. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.