Tasmania is embracing the digital age with an ambitious tech agenda that’s making waves in the state’s economy. Following a year of substantial progress in tech and innovation, the Tasmanian Liberal Government is focused on expanding the digital economy and positioning the island for future growth.
One of the standout initiatives of 2024 is the development of myServiceTas, a platform designed to streamline services for Tasmanians. This marks a significant step forward in the Government’s drive to modernise the public service, making it easier for residents to access information and services through a single, user-friendly interface. This development reflects Tasmania’s broader commitment to a digital future, helping the state to stay ahead in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
In addition to this, there has been a major push to enhance connectivity across Tasmania. The Free Statewide Wi-Fi Access Program (SWAP), which provides free Wi-Fi at public locations across the state, was expanded in November 2024. The program now covers over 80 locations, reaching record levels in terms of accessibility. This expansion is crucial for improving connectivity in more remote and rural areas, ensuring that all Tasmanians have access to the digital world, regardless of their location.
Minister for Innovation, Science, and the Digital Economy, Madeleine Ogilvie, highlighted the importance of these initiatives in driving Tasmania’s future growth. “Our tech agenda is ambitious: we are tooling-up our modern island economy for the digital economy,” she said. These projects aim to connect more people to the digital landscape, which in turn fosters an environment where new ideas and innovations can thrive. By enhancing access to technology and services, Tasmania is taking significant steps towards achieving a more connected, efficient, and digitally inclusive future.
The government’s investment in innovation and technology isn’t just limited to connectivity. Tasmania is also making significant strides in the STEM field, particularly at the University of Tasmania’s (UTAS) Sandy Bay campus. The establishment of a state-of-the-art STEM Precinct promises to elevate Tasmania’s position as a leader in scientific and technological research. This development aims to provide an environment where students, researchers, and tech entrepreneurs can collaborate and advance the cutting edge of innovation. By strengthening the STEM sector, Tasmania is laying the groundwork for a future workforce equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy.
Minister Ogilvie has been vocal about the importance of technology in driving Tasmania’s economic growth. “The tech sector is an important part of the Tasmanian economy, contributing more than $1.7 billion to the State’s economy and employing more than 9,500 workers,” she noted. The growing tech sector is helping to diversify Tasmania’s economy, making it less reliant on traditional industries like agriculture and tourism. As more tech companies establish themselves in Tasmania, the state is becoming an attractive destination for businesses in the digital space, helping to create jobs and boost local prosperity.
As Tasmania pushes forward with its tech reforms, the government is also focused on ensuring that residents are prepared for the challenges of the digital age. With the holiday season fast approaching, Minister Ogilvie has issued a reminder to Tasmanians to stay vigilant against scams. The rise of online scams, particularly during busy shopping periods like Christmas, has become a growing concern. To protect themselves, Tasmanians are encouraged to take simple but effective measures such as activating multi-factor authentication, using strong and unique passwords, and keeping their devices’ software up to date. These precautions are essential for maintaining security in an increasingly interconnected world.
This focus on security is indicative of the government’s holistic approach to digital transformation. While it’s crucial to develop new technologies and services, it’s equally important to ensure that residents are educated about online safety. By fostering a sense of digital responsibility, Tasmania is not only enabling people to access new technologies but also empowering them to use those technologies safely and securely.
The Tasmanian government’s digital transformation is a clear example of how a smaller state can leverage technology to drive growth and innovation. By investing in infrastructure, supporting the development of a tech-savvy workforce, and prioritising online safety, Tasmania is positioning itself as a leader in the digital economy. These efforts show that, even on an island with a relatively small population, there’s potential for big impact in the tech world.
As Tasmania looks to the future, the government’s ongoing commitment to innovation and digital inclusion is helping to set the stage for further growth in the tech sector. With projects like the myServiceTas platform, the expansion of free Wi-Fi, and the development of the STEM Precinct, the state is laying a solid foundation for continued progress. The government’s proactive approach ensures that Tasmania is not just keeping up with the digital age but is actively shaping its future in the digital economy.
For residents, businesses, and students alike, these tech initiatives are a signal that Tasmania is taking the necessary steps to embrace the future of innovation. With technology driving everything from connectivity and public services to education and business growth, Tasmania is becoming a hub for innovation in Australia. As the state continues to roll out these ambitious projects, the potential for even greater achievements is on the horizon.
Tasmania’s digital agenda is more than just a set of reforms—it’s a vision for a thriving, forward-looking economy where innovation, technology, and inclusivity play central roles. As the state continues to develop and refine its digital infrastructure, it is setting a precedent for how regional areas can capitalise on the benefits of technology to improve the lives of their residents and foster economic growth.
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