The Australian Government has announced that it will spend $ 1.2 billion ($ 930 million) to grow the country into a major digital economy by 2030 as part of its next federal budget.
“All Australian businesses are now digital businesses,” said the Prime Minister. Scott Morrison said.. “This transformation is not just domestic, it is global.”
“To ensure an economic recovery from COVID-19, we must step into digital accelerators.”
This measure includes a $ 100 million digital skills upgrade program, a $ 124 million artificial intelligence initiative, a 30% tax deduction in the gaming development market, and enhanced cybersecurity.
Technology graduates will have more access to scholarships and new digital cadets will be created.This helps the industry meet Increasing demand For workers with digital skills.
Half of the $ 1 billion package will also be spent on government service upgrades, including $ 200 million to overhaul MyGov services and more than $ 300 million to improve the country’s digital health recording platform, My Health Record.
The government also aims to support SMEs by promoting companies that integrate the use of electronic invoices and expanding the digital sector of SME advisory services.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said increasing digital adoption will increase competitiveness, increase national productivity, and provide more jobs and higher wages.
Digital Economy Minister Jane Hume said the strategy is a breakthrough investment in Australia’s digital future.
“A large number of Australians are already in the digital economy, and some Australians are unaware of it,” Hume said. “Every time contactless payments, electronic bills, business websites, or small businesses come online, it’s all part of it and growing fast.”
The gaming industry welcomes tax offsets by the Interactive Games and Entertainment Association (IGEA), which we call one of the “most important” tax incentives for video game development worldwide.
“With this new support, Australian game developers have an incredibly bright future and have great games and experiences they create,” said IGEACEO. Roncurry said..
Finance Minister Simon Birmingham said the budget is a big agenda and the top priority list is “keeping Australians safe.”
“The budget passed next week will continue to address the uncertainty of the COVID situation,” Birmingham said. Told Sky News.. “We invest in different ways to keep our economy strong and people safe.”