Thomson launches global vision for Vic ICT industry

Media release - 13 December 2005

The Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Marsha Thomson, today unveiled the Bracks Government's global vision for Victorian ICT industry with the launch of the Victorian ICT Industry Plan 2005 - 2010.

"Together with the industry, the Bracks Government has developed a plan to foster a strong and innovative local ICT sector," Ms Thomson said.

"This plan draws on the wealth of experience and ideas within the industry to create a strategic way forward for the growth of ICT in Victoria."

Ms Thomson said the plan identified new initiatives and programs to support future industry growth, particularly in the crucial areas of government procurement, export and investment, workforce development and collaboration.

Key features of the plan include:

New whole-of-government ICT procurement policies that allow contractors to, by default, retain ownership of intellectual property they develop under contract with Government;

$1 million over three years for establishment and growth of ICT clusters and networks;

$1.9 million for ICT Scholarship and industry skills package;

Doubling the Bracks Government's commitment to its ICT trade fairs and mission program;

Developing emerging market strategies to assist Victorian ICT companies to identify new export opportunities; and

Assisting in the establishment of a world class motion capture facility for the computer games industry.

"The Bracks Government is leading Australia by reducing the cost and increasing the incentives for the ICT industry to do business with Government," Ms Thomson said.

"With worldwide investments in ICT tipped to grow beyond $3 trillion, it is vital the Victorian
ICT industry thinks globally.

"The Bracks Government is committed to fostering the immense pool of ICT talent and innovation in Victoria and will continue to work with industry to help it become a truly world-class and globally competitive ICT industry."

Part of the launch included the world-first demonstration of a ground-breaking RFID application for lightweight devices for use in competitive cycling. The technology was developed by local company iCrystal.

"We have a lot to be proud of. Our local ICT industry is as good, if not better than anything the world has to offer and iCrsytal is a great example of that." Ms Thomson said.

To download a copy of the Victorian ICT Industry Plan 2005 - 2010 go to www.mmv.vic.gov.au

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Thomson launches global vision for Vic ICT industry