ACS supports the vision for enhanced digital productivity
The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has warmly received the Productivity Commission's interim report on Harnessing Data and Digital Technology. ACS CEO Josh Griggs has expressed his support for many of the Commission's findings, particularly the emphasis on improving digital skills, encouraging innovation, and addressing capability gaps.
According to the ACS Digital Pulse 2025 report, which is based on feedback from 300 senior executives and over 1,200 IT professionals, 45% of C-suite leaders report only basic digital capabilities in their organizations. The report also reveals that 150,000 businesses in Australia are experiencing significant or severe digital skills shortages.
To address these challenges, the ACS proposes fast-tracking a national framework for technology skills. They suggest building on Jobs and Skills Australia's taxonomy and aligning with international standards like SFIA to identify and address critical capability gaps in AI and digital fields.
ACS also advocates for boosting investment in AI-related R&D and adoption to address Australia's low R&D intensity and lagging innovation output. The digital economy, as per the ACS Digital Pulse 2025 report, supports 1 million jobs and contributes $134 billion annually in Australia.
Mr. Griggs emphasizes the need for clear, coordinated, and risk-based regulation to evolve in parallel with technology, not in its wake. He states that delaying action on AI risks undermining public confidence and leaving industry in limbo. A pause in AI regulation, as recommended in the Productivity Commission's report, would increase uncertainty for business and delay the development of the sovereign capabilities Australia urgently needs.
The ACS opposes the introduction of mandatory safety measures for artificial intelligence and instead calls for voluntary industry standards and self-regulation as an alternative. They argue that this approach would foster innovation and competition while ensuring safety and ethical considerations are addressed.
Furthermore, the ACS proposes ensuring inclusive and flexible pathways into digital careers. This includes entry-level cybersecurity programs, "earn while you learn" models, and removing unnecessary degree requirements from job ads to widen access to in-demand roles.
The ACS Digital Pulse 2025 report states that digital tasks now make up 39% of the average Australian worker's day. As such, it is crucial that Australia invests in its digital workforce to remain competitive in the global economy. The ACS looks forward to working with the government and industry to implement these recommendations and build a digitally skilled and innovative nation.
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