South Australian Government Seeks New CIO to Lead Digital Strategy

What's Happening?

The South Australian government has initiated the recruitment process for a new Chief Information Officer (CIO) following the departure of Dr. Eva Balan-Vnuk, who left for SA Power Networks seven months ago. The Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) is looking for a permanent CIO to spearhead the state's digital, cybersecurity, and technology agenda. This role involves crafting a new government-wide strategy and overseeing service delivery. The recruitment comes as South Australia approaches the final year of its ICT, Cyber Security, and Digital Government Strategy 2020-2025. Will Luker, the current Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), has been serving as the acting CIO since Balan-Vnuk's exit, leading a team of 140 full-time employees. The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) was recently moved from the Department of the Premier and Cabinet to the DTF, consolidating IT delivery and digital program units under one department.

Why It's Important?

The appointment of a new CIO is crucial for South Australia as it seeks to enhance its digital infrastructure and cybersecurity measures. The role is pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of the state's digital strategy, which includes a $75 million investment over four years for digital modernization and cybersecurity. Additionally, the state plans to invest $28 million to establish an 'Office for AI' to develop artificial intelligence pilots for government use. This strategic focus on digital transformation and AI development is expected to bolster the state's technological capabilities, improve public service delivery, and enhance cybersecurity resilience. The new CIO will play a key role in driving these initiatives, impacting government operations and potentially setting a precedent for other regions.

What's Next?

The recruitment process for the new CIO is underway, with the successful candidate expected to lead the implementation of the state's digital strategy. The incoming CIO will need to address the challenges of integrating various IT services and digital programs, ensuring seamless service delivery across government departments. Stakeholders, including government officials and technology partners, will likely monitor the appointment closely, given its significance in shaping the state's digital future. The establishment of the 'Office for AI' will also be a priority, as it aims to explore innovative AI applications within the government sector.