NSW April 2026 Recap: Inclusion driving a stronger tech community
What does a strong tech community really look like? In April, the answer wasn’t found in a single event or conversation - it was present across every interaction. It showed up in the way people leaned in, shared openly, challenged perspectives, and created space for others to do the same. This month was a reminder that our community is not just something we belong to - it’s something we actively build, together.
Across our events and discussions, one theme stood out clearly: inclusion. Not as a buzzword, but as an ongoing commitment. A commitment to ensuring people feel seen, valued, and able to contribute in meaningful ways.
Highlights
- At our April Tech Connect, Dr Zoran Bolevich highlighted a critical shift where advancing data in healthcare means building inclusive, trusted systems - interoperable ecosystems that enable secure, real-time insights and more proactive, system-wide decision-making.
- We celebrated Western Sydney University on their reaccreditation with ACS - a reflection of their commitment to delivering industry-aligned programs.
- Our first mid-career webinar featured our members, Clive Bortz and Rob Estherby, who shared insights on transitioning from technical expert to influential leader.
- NSW Member and CEO of auticon, Ivonne Ranisch, shares her insights about how neurodivergent talent remains an underutilised strategic advantage, despite offering critical skills and facing disproportionately high unemployment.
The ongoing commitment to inclusion in tech
Our BEC members reflect on the commitment to ensuring people feel seen, valued, and able to contribute in meaningful ways through honest reflections and lived experience.
Abby Bloom reminded us that inclusion also means valuing experience - creating space for different career stages to learn from one another, and recognising the depth that lived experience brings to our industry. It’s a perspective that challenges the idea that innovation only comes from what’s new, instead highlighting the power of what’s been learned over time.
Lucy Lin reinforced the critical role of communication in shaping inclusive environments: “Communication is the bridge between brilliant ideas and diverse teams feeling seen, heard, and empowered to shape technology’s future together.”
It’s a simple truth, but one that carries weight - because without intentional communication, even the best ideas can fail to connect.
Robert Estherby brought it home with a reflection that many in our community resonated with. Inclusion isn’t just a value; it’s a driver of better thinking, stronger collaboration, and more innovative outcomes.
These aren’t just reflections - they’re signals of what our community stands for.
Because inclusion isn’t passive. It’s not something we acknowledge once and move on from. It requires action. It asks us to challenge our assumptions, to invite different perspectives, and to create environments where healthy debate is encouraged and every voice has the opportunity to shape the conversation.
Get involved with ACS NSW
Make your mark - from member spotlights to contributing to thought leadership. If you'd like to be more involved, email us acs.nsw@acs.org.au. And are you getting the most out of your ACS membership? Check out our upcoming events- they’re a great way to meet people, swap ideas, and stay plugged into what’s happening in tech. Plus, courses in Skillsoft can help you sharpen your skills and prepare you for the next step in your career journey.
- Written by Krystal Ng, Events and Engagement Manager, ACS