Tech Council of Australia

This morning our CEO Kate Pounder gave the keynote address at the Startup to Scaleup Summit hosted by Stream Labs

Kate shared her insights and findings from TCA research into the Australian tech landscape in the address.

Australia's tech sector is growing rapidly, presenting a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs to innovate, flourish, and solve some of our most complex problems. However, there are also some major barriers to scaling Australian start-ups into globally successful tech firms.

This includes the maturity of our capital markets for investments beyond series B, shortages for experienced, technical roles, and regulatory barriers. If we can address these issues, we can support the creation of even more high-value, high-wage jobs, improve productivity across the economy and improve the lives of Australians.

Thanks to Stream Labs for hosting a fantastic event and providing a valuable platform for conversations and collaborations within the Australian tech community.

A best practice approach to cybersecurity policy supports innovation and growth across the entire sector.

Becoming a world leader in cyber security would provide Australia with a competitive economic advantage as a tech ecosystem. In our report, Shots on Goal, we identify four essential components to making Australia a cyber security leader:

1. A clear national cyber security plan
2. A strong pipeline of cyber and tech talent
3. Better use and adoption of tech that can prevent or reduce the impact of cyber attacks
4. A modernised legal framework fit for the digital age

Read more about these factors in our full report: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Shots-on-Goal-vF.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Generative AI presents a massive potential for the Australian tech sector and beyond - transforming industries, creating jobs, and boosting productivity. However, to maximise the benefits of Generative AI, all adopters should focus on six key priorities:

1. Define the generative AI vision and opportunity
2. Assess readiness
3. Invest and experiment with the technology
4. Develop responsible governance frameworks
5. Upskill the workforce
6. Communicate to customers and stakeholders

By taking these strategic actions together, Australia can unlock the transformative potential of Generative AI, driving economic growth and global competitiveness.

Explore these priorities in full in our report, Generative AI, here: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230714-Australias-Gen-AI-Opportunity-Final-report-vF4.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

The TCA is thrilled to share some exciting news and offer our congratulations to TCA member, Employment Hero !

Employment Hero, a leading HR platform, has secured a staggering $263 million in a Series F funding round. The funding was led by US fund Technology Crossover Ventures (TCV), subject to Foreign Investment Review Board approval, and saw continued support from existing investors including Partners , AirTree Ventures , Seek Investments, and .

This funding has led to a remarkable 60% increase in the company's valuation, now standing at $1.25 billion! This latest raise brings their total venture funding to over A$650 million, highlighting their leading position in the HR and payroll software industry.

Employment Hero CEO, Ben Thompson, said, “TCV is a leading technology investor with an enviable track-record backing many of the world’s most ubiquitous digital platforms like Airbnb and Spotify, so we are very excited to welcome them aboard as we do the same for employment.”

According to Thompson, Employment Hero’s vision is “to open doors to a world where talent flows like water through a pipe” for SMEs and become the dominant player in the market. With a new partnership with TCV, a track record of supporting digital giants, Employment Hero is poised for an exciting growth trajectory!

Read the full article, here: https://www.startupdaily.net/topic/funding/employment-hero-hits-2-billion-valuation-after-whopping-263-million-series-f/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Congratulations to TCA member Diraq for being selected as a finalist in the InnovationAus.com Awards for Excellence in the Defence, Dual-Use and Space category!

Diraq is a world leader in silicon quantum dot quantum computing, with their innovative technology able to condense the significant power of a quantum computer onto a single chip.

Their tech is based on modified transistors, which are already used in digital products that we use every day. In utilising existing silicon hardware, Diraq is able to tap into the trillions of dollars already invested in this technology and nearly six decades of manufacturing capability offered by existing semiconductor factories.

Over the last two decades, Diraq founder Professor Alexander Dzurak’s research has landed more than $100 million in grants and institutional and commercial funding, and from both the US and Australian governments.

The TCA is proud to work with companies like Diraq who are unlocking the true promise and potential of quantum computing, and transforming our world!

Read the full article, here: Diraq: A silicon spin on quantum computing (innovationaus.com)?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

At the TCA, we are passionate about improving our tech ecosystem and boosting the Australian tech sector on a global scale. We are always incredibly proud to showcase how our members are contributing to the success of the Australian tech sector through innovation.

Last week, Vincent Zhang and Leo Lucas from the Tech Council of Australia visited TCA member, Displays at their Sydney office to try their newest product. espresso Displays is an Australian technology innovator that creates both hardware and software. Founded by a team of passionate engineers who recognised a clear unmet need for portable display technology that served the rapidly changing and diverse needs of how people work.

With their products previously recognised as one of Time's best inventions in 2021, their innovative tech is helping the world’s tech workforce become more productive and mobile.

They have now officially launched their new espresso 17 Pro - a new benchmark for portable touchscreens. Not only do their products showcase the next generation of innovation - they showcase how innovative tech developed right here in Australia is making waves globally, with their displays being used by top tech companies around the world!

Read more about their latest innovation here: [https://au.espres.so/products/17-pro?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social and their product offering](https://au.espres.so/products/17-pro)?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

The TCA is proud to take part in Generative AI for Government Summit 2023!

The Generative AI for Government Summit 2023 is the first event in Australia designed for the public sector that covers everything that Federal and State government leaders need to embrace G*I technology, including implementing the right AI tools for your organisation, mitigating ethical and regulatory risks, and discovering how you can re-skill your teams.

With over two jam-packed days of content, networking and learning, you’ll meet and hear from revolutionaries at the forefront of generative AI from both the public and private sectors.

Tech Council CEO, Kate Pounder will be participating in the Summit and hosting a panel discussion on navigating generative AI’s impact on government operations and strategy while adapting to emerging risks.

Book your tickets now with our discount code for 15% off: https://generativeaigovernmentsummit.com.au/registration?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

The TCA is super excited to take part in SXSW Sydney!

Tech Council CEO Kate Pounder will join Dr Aengus Tran & Dr Simon Kos at Sydney 2023 on 17 October, 10am for a panel discussion about the collision of science fiction and science fact in healthcare.

They'll explore how technologies like AI are turning futuristic visions into medical reality, with a core focus on how this technology can help us move the world forward in remarkable, inspiring ways.

If you’re interested in the future of healthcare (and love a good sci-fi film) come and join the discussion, see more info & grab your tickets here: https://schedule.sxswsydney.com/sessions/196d53cf-7025-5a61-8220-4728d6dabf1a ?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

In a recent address to the House Standing Committee on Employment, Education, and Training, Ryan Black, Head of Public Policy at TCA, outlined our vision for generative AI in education.

In a recent report, we forecast that generative AI could contribute between $45 billion and $115 billion in annual economic value for Australia by 2030. These benefits will come from productivity improvements of adopting generative AI in existing industries such as healthcare, retail, manufacturing and professional services, as well as the creation of new jobs and businesses through AI innovation.

Australia's capacity to realise this major economic opportunity will depend on our ability to build a digitally skilled and literate workforce that can effectively utilise these new and emerging tools. Our education system has a central role to play here, including our schools, the VET sector and universities.

While there are always risks with introducing new technologies in the education system, past experience shows that they can be overcome with thoughtful and careful implementation.

Read more: https://www.perthnow.com.au/technology/schools-universities-should-embrace-not-fear-ai-tech-c-12171284.amp?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Australia’s manufacturing sector is on the verge of a $2-5B boost, driven by the incredible potential of Generative AI. The potential lies in Generative AI’s capacity to unlock advanced manufacturing capabilities including rapid prototyping, smarter designs, and enhanced precision in production processes.

But the Generative AI potential isn’t just about machines – it’s also about empowering workers! Technicians comprise 27% of the manufacturing industry, all of which can massively benefit from new skills and capabilities they can access through AI.

Dive deeper into how G*I can transform manufacturing in our full report here: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230714-Australias-Gen-AI-Opportunity-Final-report-vF4.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Interested in the future of sustainability in the tech world?

We are taking last-minute registrations for our Future of Sustainability in Tech panel for tomorrow night.

The TCA is thrilled to welcome Jess Hyman, the Chief Sustainability Officer at Atlassian in the U.S, as she shares her invaluable insights on driving sustainability initiatives in the tech world and takes us through the Don't F*** the Planet guide to a net zero future.

Meet the Panel
• Jess Hyman, Chief Sustainability Officer, Atlassian
• Mike Williams, Head of Sustainability, Canva
• Katherine McConnell, Founder and CEO, Brighte

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with fellow ESG professionals, forge meaningful connections, and be part of the conversation shaping the future of sustainable tech. Join us in person for an evening of knowledge-sharing, networking, and socialising.

Date: Tuesday, 10th October, 2023
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm AEST
Location: Atlassian Offices, Lv 29, 363 George St, Sydney

Register here: https://techcouncil.eventsair.com/tca-global-leaders-event-with-atlassian/rego/Site/Register?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Since the early 2000s, Australia has also seen a rapid rise in tech jobs. In fact, over the last 20 years, tech jobs have grown twice as fast as all other jobs!

But tech jobs aren’t just growing – they're thriving. Quickly becoming some of the most productive in the Australian economy, tech jobs now boast the second-highest hourly productivity of any sector. With productivity growth in Australia at a 60-year low, growing our tech workforce is key to securing our future living standards.

This rapid growth and high productivity translates into prosperity for the wider Australian economic landscape. Learn more about how we can boost the tech sector and keep expanding our reach and impact in our report, Shots on Goal: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Shots-on-Goal-vF.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Congratulations to TCA member for being chosen to be a part of the esteemed Open Innovation Lab in the United States!

Kallipr joins 16 multi-stage, global startups, and one Australian company as part of the 5G OI Lab’s Batch 8 cohort, a global hotspot for innovation in sectors such as cloud, edge, AI, agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.

Inclusion in in the 5G OI Lab offers the opportunity to partner with global carriers and corporate giants such as Microsoft Life , Dell, Accenture and Comcast .

Kallipr’s participation reaffirms the company’s dedication to advancing IoT technology, enhancing customer efficiency and safety for its customers and providing a clean tech solution that will drive new ways of managing the world’s resources.

“This is a defining moment for Kallipr and a proud accomplishment for Australian technology. Joining the 5G Open Innovation Lab provides us with a unique platform to showcase our expertise, collaborate with global leaders, drive innovation to new heights and ultimately create a greener future,” said Kallipr CEO Gerhard Loots.

The healthcare sector is set to significantly benefit from the transformative potential of Generative AI.

G*I enables a level of personalisation that can significantly improve the accessibility, quality, and speed of healthcare delivery – from one-on-one patient care to medical history tracking and earlier diagnoses.

The data surrounding G*I in the healthcare sector is already highlighting G*I’s transformative capabilities. For example, 25% of nursing tasks can now be augmented by AI, enabling nurses to spend more time with patients, and providing better care. Additionally, 30% of new drugs could be discovered using G*I in some way by 2025.

Dive deeper into how G*I can transform healthcare in our full report here: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230714-Australias-Gen-AI-Opportunity-Final-report-vF4.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Last week, the Tech Council of Australia, along with TCA member Kyndryl, were privileged to host the Investor's Network (QUIN) for a roundtable at law firm Ashurst offices.

The QUIN is an organisation driving a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Quad countries to usher in the next century of technology and strategic infrastructure. We gathered to discuss the importance of the quad partnership in promoting economic collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. The meeting was highly productive and constructive, fostering valuable discussions and we'd like to extend our thanks to all who attended.

Meet the driving force behind positive tech change at 42 Adelaide!

As an Operations Manager at 42 Adelaide, a coding school that provides quality digital skills education to students from diverse backgrounds, Melinda Ho is working to create a more equitable and inclusive tech industry. In her role, Melinda's passion for leveraging technology to create a meaningful societal impact shines through.

She oversees the pedagogy, operations, and admissions of the school and its programs. Over the past 18 months, she has welcomed more than 800 students into the school. Her strengths in social work and intercultural communication enable her to work with diverse student cohorts and ensure 42 Adelaide’s programs continue to enhance student experiences.

By nurturing a diverse pool of aspiring tech enthusiasts from various backgrounds, 42 Adelaide is not only equipping them with valuable digital skills but also igniting a chain reaction of innovation and collaboration! It is so inspiring to see education being used as a catalyst for shaping the future of Adelaide's tech industry, unlocking limitless opportunities for Australia’s tech industry expansion.

Explore more faces behind Australia’s diverse tech industry in our report: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230731_GeographyOfAusDigiIndustriesJul23_vFF.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

With 30 regional tech clusters around Australia, regional centres are proving to be incredible homes for tech growth!

Newcastle, in the Hunter region of New South Wales, is a prime example of a regional specialist tech cluster. Known for its industrial heritage, Newcastle's is reshaping itself as a centre of tech growth.

Occupations within this dynamic cluster range from web and graphic designers to IT technicians and telecommunications experts. In the evolving narrative of tech clusters, Newcastle demonstrates the critical role of regional areas in shaping Australia’s tech landscape.

Find out more in our full report, https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230731_GeographyOfAusDigiIndustriesJul23_vFF.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Whilst Australia’s tech ecosystem is a great place for startups, our research shows the path from startup to scaleup is often met with a distinct challenge – access to experienced talent.

In fact, only 1% of Australia’s tech workers have scaleup experience, compared to 13% in the US and 17% in Singapore.

This data highlights that, whilst Australia has no shortage of great tech talent, we may not always have the right mix of skills and experience to compete globally.

Providing our startups with the right talent isn’t just a goal – it’s a crucial ingredient that will enable our tech sector to thrive! This is why skilled migration is such an important part of addressing tech workforce challenges, alongside the domestic skills and training system.

Read more in our full report here: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Shots-on-Goal-vF.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Are you interested in climate tech's role in shaping Australia's sustainable future?

Join us this Friday for TCA’s TechTalk, ‘Intro to Climate Tech’ with Mick Liubinskas, Founder and CEO of Climate Salad. Mick will introduce you to the exciting world of climate tech and the innovative solutions emerging right here in Australia!

Guided by one of the industry's leading voices, this webinar will cover:
- What exactly is climate tech?
- Why climate technology is so important
- The key players driving innovation in this industry
- The opportunity for Australia and the companies that are already doing well
- What you can do as an individual to support this industry.

No prior knowledge or experience is required. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the solution.

Friday 15 September 2023
Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm AEST

Register now to secure your spot: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rHp1jlqHSy6y5qXRF-ArmA #/registration?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Congratulations to our member Q-CTRL on taking home the Most Innovative Startup award at the 2023 Startup Daily Best in Tech Awards’, sponsored by Dell for Startups!

Q-CTRL has pioneered the quantum infrastructure software segment, and become the leading software company in the quantum sector.

"As a young tech startup, everyone at Q-CTRL is working really hard to deliver huge commercial and strategic advantages for Australia and its allies," said Q-CTRL Founder and CEO Michael J Biercuk.

"We’ve assembled the best team in the world, drawing on Australia’s exceptional history as a research powerhouse in quantum computing. It’s thrilling that we’ve been able to build a business around our globally unique technology which is recognised not just in quantum technology circles, but across the broader tech ecosystem.”

Read the full article here: https://www.startupdaily.net/partner-content/q-ctrl-named-australias-most-innovative-startup/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Amidst Australia's vibrant tech industry, Adelaide is carving out an increasingly important place on Australia’s tech map.

This vibrant cluster encompasses three dynamic hotspots – the Adelaide city centre, Mawson Lakes (technology Park), and the Payneham Area – all of which are nationally significant sites of tech activity and innovation!

From defence, to analytics and EdTech, Adelaide’s innovation hotspots are fostering growth, creating high-value jobs, and leading Australia’s transition to clean energy.

Find out more in our full report, here: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230731_GeographyOfAusDigiIndustriesJul23_vFF.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social

Generative AI tools can reduce the time of writing tasks by 37%, with improved quality. By using AI as a co-pilot, we can amplify our capabilities, streamline our operations, and boost our productivity.

Generative AI can also support managers with staff communication, creating training materials, identifying trends in employee sentiment, and analysing performance data. It has also allowed for easier access to business intelligence and analysing company data, helping with proposals and resource planning.

By partnering with G*I, managers can stay closely in tune with their team, understand client needs, and devise strategic plans with greater specificity and efficiency.

Find out more ways Generative AI is copiloting work in our full report: https://techcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/230714-Australias-Gen-AI-Opportunity-Final-report-vF4.pdf?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Zoho+Social