ACS Canberra Celebrates 60 Years and Launches Digital Pulse

17 Aug 2026 | Jenalle Bushby, Canberra Branch Manager

^Highlights

On 11 August 2026, we welcomed more than 80 technology professionals to the National Press Club in Canberra for the launch of ACS Digital Pulse 2026 and the celebration of ACS's 60th Anniversary.

The event opened with remarks from Annie Ryan MACS CP, Canberra Branch Chair, followed by an introduction of the Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP by Dr Prins Ralston FACS, ACS CEO.

Dr Prins Ralston reminded attendees that sixty years of standards and professional practice sit behind this society's work. He noted that eighty-nine per cent (89%) of the people working in technology in Australia today are employed in roles that did not exist t exist in 1966, and that technology sector contributed $142 billion to the Australian economy in the last financial year. These insights highlighted the importance of the research behind Digital Pulse report matters. 

The Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Richard Marles MP shared his reflections on Australia's digital transformation over recent decades, and the opportunities presented by increased AI adoption. He also emphasised the importance of proactively shaping the future and ensuring Australia is well positioned to benefit from emerging technologies.

Beau Tydd FACS CP, ACS President, took us back to 1951 and shared the history of one of the machines demonstrated by CSIRAC, which was built in Australia by Trevor Pearcey and Maston Beard. He explained how this pioneering achievement helped lay the foundations for Australia's computing industry.

He then reflected on the collaboration between the five state and territory computer societies, which came together to establish the Australian Computer Society (ACS) as the professional association for Australia's technology sector on 1 January 1966.

All speeches from our guest speakers were remarkable and enjoyable.

A key highlight was the release of the ACS Digital Pulse 2026 report, which projects that Australia will need an additional 259,000 technology professionals by 2035. The findings reinforce the importance of strengthening pathways into technology careers, supporting workforce reskilling, and building digital capability across all sectors.

ACS Canberra Branch Executive Committee also honoured to recognise 24 ACS members with more than 40 years of membership, presenting each with 12 months of complimentary Honorary ACS Membership in recognition of their outstanding commitment to ACS and the technology profession. Their dedication reflects the values of professionalism, lifelong learning, and service that have underpinned ACS for the past six decades.

Overall, it was a fantastic evening bringing together ACS members, technology leaders, academics, industry partners, government representatives, and friends to celebrate this significant milestone and explore the insights that will help shape the future of Australia's technology profession.

As we reflect on 60 years of impact, we look forward to the opportunities ahead and the next chapter of innovation, leadership, and growth.

Congratulations to those who have been ACS members for 40+ years and have been awarded a one-year complimentary Honorary Membership in recognition of their long-standing commitment and contribution to ACS.

Upcoming Events

We have an exciting line-up of events planned for the months ahead.

• 18 September 2026: ACS Canberra Tech Quiz Night
• 4 November 2026: ACS & APS Digital Excellence Awards

Thank you for being part of the ACS Community!

Find out more about ways we can work with you, contact us: acs.canb@acs.org.au

About the ACS Canberra Hub
The ACS Hub is a custom-built space for members to meet, collaborate, and attend events. Meeting rooms are also available for hire by both members and non-members.

📅 Book a room or find out more about upcoming events and member benefits.