ACS Canberra monthly wrap up – February 2025

CBR monthly wrap up – February 2025

Welcome to the February 2025 wrap-up from your CBR ACS branch, highlighting the key activities and events that brought our community together and showcasing our shared achievements and memorable moments.

ACS President meets with Liberal spokesperson

ACS President Helen McHugh was pleased to host a business leaders roundtable last week in Canberra with special guest Senator James Paterson - opposition shadow cabinet secretary and Shadow Home Affairs Minister.

 The roundtable was being held in conjunction with the start of possibly the final sitting of federal parliament prior to this year’s election.

 Present were many leaders of industry from banking to tech and mining. The topics discussed were varied but focused on foreign affairs and cyber security.

 Helen spoke of the work ACS is doing in the AI space and thanked the Senator for his ongoing support of our association.

ACS attends Canberra Tech Policy Launch 
 
 
 

ACS President Helen McHugh was delighted to join CEO Johanna Weaver at the launch of the Tech Policy Design Institute launch on Monday the 17.

 Held at Parliament House in Canberra, the event featured speakers from industry leaders and representatives from the Government, Opposition and Greens parties along with independent MPs and industry regulators.

 The Tech Policy Design Institute (TPDi) is an independent, non-partisan think tank dedicated to technology policy and building Australia's digital literacy.

 ACS is a gold foundation member of the TPDi and we look forward to supporting them in furthering Australian tech policy over the coming year.

ACS Canberra Mentor Program: A celebration of growth and new beginnings

On February 18th, ACS Canberra brought together a community of learners and leaders at the Mentor Program Graduation & Launch Event, held at the vibrant Canberra Hub. This special evening was not just a milestone—it was a testament to the power of mentorship in shaping the future of the industry. Read more

ACS President supports Missing School initiative

Early February, ACS President Helen McHugh, MACS (Snr), attended the Missing School information session at Parliament House with the Hon Paul Fletcher, MHR, and the Hon Mitch Fifield, former UN Ambassador and Minister.

 Missing School is a not-for-profit seeking to raise awareness and find solutions for children at risk of missing school for months or years due to complex medical or mental health challenges.

 The charity is dedicated to bridging the educational and social gaps experienced by these kids and their siblings by working for continuing connection to their regular school.

 Helen, pictured with Missing School co-founder Megan Gilmour, is a strong supporter of the initiative and looks forward to supporting this important program in coming years.

ACS roundtable to boost Australian tech

On February 26 ACS Canberra hosted a roundtable discussing reforms to the Commonwealth Procurement Rules and the broader challenges faced by Australia’s tech sector. The event brought together industry leaders, government representatives, and economists to explore upcoming policy changes, including a clearer definition of Australian businesses and updated ICT procurement guidelines.

Speakers highlighted key barriers for local tech firms, such as difficulties expanding to the US, lack of government support, and competition with global giants. Discussions also touched on the structural gaps in Australia’s innovation ecosystem, including the absence of mid-sized tech firms and funding limitations for long-term R&D.

Attendees called for stronger local procurement policies and greater industry collaboration to support Australian tech. The event underscored the need for cultural and policy shifts to foster a more competitive and resilient industry.

Click here for more information about how government procurement policies can support the local IT industry.

As we conclude this month’s review, we extend a formal invitation for you to engage more deeply with our upcoming events and community initiatives. As a valued member, your presence enriches our gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. We also recognise the expertise you bring, and we encourage you to share your knowledge and insights to contribute to the growth and success of our community. Your involvement is crucial in shaping the future of our branch, and we look forward to your continued participation in the months ahead.

Explore our upcoming events here. 

Jenalle Bushby