Newman Government delivers major ICT reform

The Newman Government will make ICT open and accountable like never before, with the announcement of an IT dashboard.

Minister for Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts Ian Walker said the dashboard is one way the sector will be transformed, following the release of the ICT Audit.

“Within six months all significant government projects, their costs and current status will be released publicly, enabling greater scrutiny and transparency of ICT projects,” Mr Walker said.

“This is another phase of the Newman Government’s open data initiative and will ensure Queensland has a revitalised ICT industry, while getting the best value for money.

Mr Walker said the ICT Audit was the largest of its kind undertaken in Queensland.

“Our reform agenda has been shaped by the recommendations in the whole-of-government ICT Audit,” he said.

“We will reduce costs and improve service delivery.”

“The audit highlights the condition, performance and management of ICT assets, and identified high risk areas.”

He said of the 60 recommendations made, the majority had been fully or partially accepted, or accepted in principle.
These recommendations include:

·         Conduct technical upgrades for high-risk payroll systems

·         Smart Service Queensland to no longer maintain its own ICT capability

·         Develop a business case for the transition of all government payroll systems to externally managed services, subject to the evaluation of pilots

·         Establish and run a program to deliver unrealised short-term savings opportunities

“The ICT Audit and Queensland Commission of Audit recommendations have presented a strong vision for ICT reform,” he said.

“We’ve taken the time to get this right.

“The last thing we wanted was another debacle like the Health Payroll failure which is estimated to cost Queenslanders $1.25 billion.

“The Newman Government is working closely with industry to create a decisive roadmap for the future.

“A discussion paper has already been released to the ICT sector and the general public for comment, and we are incorporating that feedback into our vision.

“Together, we’re developing a digital economy in Queensland.”

Data 3’s John Grant said the government’s ICT discussion paper had been welcomed by industry.

“I’m looking forward to the Newman Government’s new ICT strategy and the involvement of industry in its implementation,” Mr Grant said.

“If they haven’t already done so, I encourage the sector to review the discussion paper and contribute to this important document.

“By working together, industry and government can achieve great things.”

There is still an opportunity to comment on the discussion paper that will shape the Queensland Government ICT strategy by visiting www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au. Consultation closes 11 June.

[ENDS] 7 June 2013

Media Contact: Alex Bernard, 0417 252 563 / Casie Scott, 0432 453 225