![Data is at the heart of today’s government services. This is reflected in the federal government’s Data and Digital Government Strategy (the Strategy), which highlights its goal to use data, analytics, and technology to deliver simple, accessible services for people and businesses by 2030. As noted in the strategy, Australians expect personalised, integrated, and easy-to-use services from government entities they engage with. Such personalisation, especially across digital channels, is heavily dependent on data. Delivering such services becomes more effective when the data is more accurate and up-to-date. This is where real-time data comes into play. Why? Real-time data is more accurate because it is always up-to-date. This, in turn, improves the customer experience by enabling services to be more dynamic and interactive. However, because batch processing still accounts for the majority of data processing in government ranks, even the most recent data may become outdated when used to deliver government services. Engage with data in motion Batch processing is when the processing and analysis happen on a set of data that has already been stored for a period of time. This may be days, weeks, or even months, which just doesn't cut it for delivering dynamic and interactive citizen services. In recent years, data streaming has emerged as the technology that allows organizations to tap into their data in real-time in order to improve citizen engagement and experience. Event streaming, another name for data streaming, describes the continuous flow of data as it occurs. This enables true real-time processing and analysis for immediate insights. Streaming data distinguishes itself from batch processing by delivering the most up-to-date information when required. Apache Kafka, one of the most successful open source projects, is used by over 70% of Fortune 500 companies today and is well recognised as the de facto standard for data streaming. The open-source nature of Kafka lowered the entry barrier for working with streaming data, allowing companies to easily build use cases and solutions. However, as with all open-source software, there are limitations. Companies often end up spending more to efficiently manage, scale, secure, and evolve the streaming infrastructure. Why are we still using batch processing if data streaming is the future? Batch processing is still simpler to implement than stream processing, and successfully moving from batch to streaming requires a significant change to a team’s habits and processes, as well as a meaningful upfront investment. That is why Confluent has rearchitected Kafka to create a complete platform that provides a fully managed, cloud-native data streaming solution with the ability to turn data events into outcomes, enable real-time apps, and empower teams and systems to act on data instantly. Personalised for the people Confluent’s ability to utilise data as a continually updating stream of events rather than discrete snapshots means that public sector organisations can leverage data streaming to improve citizen engagement by offering personalised, data-driven services and insights. Confluent’s data streaming platform also enables real-time monitoring and analysis of government services and infrastructure, allowing public sector entities to quickly respond to critical events such as natural disasters or public health emergencies. At a more mundane level, Confluent supports data sharing and collaboration among government agencies, facilitating the seamless exchange of information to serve the public better and optimise resource allocation. And, importantly for government organisations, Confluent’s data streaming capabilities can enhance cyber security by detecting and mitigating threats in real time and safeguarding sensitive government data—a critical element in maintaining our national security. Indeed, 53% of Australian businesses surveyed in a recent Confluent study cited security and compliance awareness as the most applicable use cases for data streaming. It should come as little surprise, then, that industry analyst firm Forrester views Confluent as “an excellent fit for organisations that need to support a high-performance, scalable, multi-cloud data pipeline with extreme resilience.” Streamlining service improvement Data streaming is driving greater efficiency in more than three of four companies across Asia Pacific, according to Confluent research. Meanwhile, 65% of IT leaders polled see significant or emerging product and service benefits from data streaming. With this in mind, the potential for the government to do more with its data is clear, and personalisation is top of mind. Personalising citizen service experiences requires knowing who a customer is at any given moment. This is made possible by accessing data in motion, especially across multiple touchpoints. At the very least, this can help citizens avoid having to provide the same information over and over again as they interact with government agencies. And now, with Confluent assessed under the Australian Information Security Registered Assessors Programme (IRAP), government agencies with an Information Security Manual PROTECTED level requirement can use Confluent Cloud across Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure. Australian government agencies will then be able to gather and share data across departments, offices, and agencies securely and at scale. This means even more government agencies will be able to tap data in motion to integrate information across their applications and systems in real time and reinvent employee and citizen experiences for the better.](https://publicspectrum.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Confluent-Advertorial.png)
Australia’s 2024 Federal Budget, revealed in May 2024, allocates significant resources to quantum computing, showcasing Australia’s preparedness to make strides in this cutting-edge technology sector. This strategic plan focuses on improving Australia’s digital infrastructure and harnessing the power of quantum computing to drive economic growth and foster innovation.
Australia’s dedication to staying ahead in technological advancements and driving its digital economy is evident in the budget allocation for quantum computing. This substantial investment is poised to bring about a transformative impact across multiple industries, ranging from logistics to scientific research, while also opening up opportunities in the digital realm.
The 2024–25 Federal Budget of Australia illustrates a significant focus on quantum computing, as demonstrated by the allocation of $472 million. This investment shows Australia’s commitment to enhancing its digital economy and staying competitive in the global technology industry. The focus of this investment is to harness the potential of quantum computing to address complex challenges in data management and analytics.
Quantum computing has the potential to completely transform multiple industries by significantly boosting computational power and allowing for the rapid and precise processing of massive amounts of data. The budget is being allocated to a range of different initiatives. One of the main initiatives involves partnering with PsiQuantum, a tech startup, to develop a groundbreaking “fault-tolerant” quantum computer on a large scale. This revolutionary quantum computer is poised to become the world’s first truly practical and error-free quantum computing device.
With its unparalleled stability and reliability, it promises to be a game-changer in the field. The Australian and Queensland governments have allocated $470 million each in funding for this project, which includes grants, loans, and share purchases. Furthermore, the Australian government has launched a $36 million grant programme specifically targeting the quantum sector, with a focus on supporting early-stage projects. This initiative seeks to promote innovation and support the growth of quantum technologies in their early stages.
In a groundbreaking agreement, the Australian Federal Government has joined forces with tech startup PsiQuantum to develop the world’s first quantum computer with commercial potential. This partnership is a crucial component of Australia’s 2024–25 Federal Budget, showcasing a firm dedication to driving forward the nation’s digital economy. The partnership requires a significant financial commitment from both the federal and Queensland governments, with each committing $470 million.
By embracing quantum computing, Australia is demonstrating its dedication to fostering technological progress and stimulating economic expansion. This initiative recognises the potential of quantum computing to revolutionise various industries and unleash unparalleled computational power. This investment seeks to accelerate research and development efforts, opening up possibilities for significant advancements in applications of quantum computing.
PsiQuantum has chosen Brisbane as the location for its regional headquarters in a significant move. This partnership is a significant move that highlights the strategic importance of bolstering Australia’s position in the global technology landscape. Australia is aiming to tap into the potential of quantum computing to open up fresh avenues for innovation, boost productivity, and stay ahead in the global tech industry.
The investment in quantum computing in the 2024 Federal Budget has the potential to bring about a revolutionary change in the tech industry. Quantum computers possess an extraordinary level of computational power, enabling them to surpass current cybersecurity measures. These advancements have the potential to revolutionise a wide range of industries, spanning from supply chain management to cutting-edge scientific investigations.
The tech industry has responded favourably to these investments. Services Australia has successfully secured over $500 million in funding over the span of four years for myGov, while PsiQuantum has recently obtained an impressive $466.4 million in equity and loans to support their ambitious quantum computing endeavours. Nevertheless, certain industry insiders cautioned that there is room for improvement in the realm of research and development (R&D) as well as the start-up environment.
The Tech Council of Australia (TCA) expressed appreciation for the initiatives outlined in the budget while also acknowledging that there is room for further improvement in uplifting Australia’s productivity growth. The federal government has allocated funding to key areas of focus for the tech sector, such as AI, migration, digital ID, and tech workforce diversity. Additionally, they have made significant investments in upcoming high-tech industries.
The 2024–25 Federal Budget highlights a thorough IT investment plan with a strong emphasis on quantum computing. This ambitious initiative, supported by substantial $2.8 billion funding, seeks to strengthen Australia’s digital economy and position the nation as a prominent player in the global technology sector. Quantum computing has received a significant portion of the budget. Quantum computers have the potential to bring about a significant transformation across multiple industries, ranging from logistics to scientific research, thanks to their exceptional computational capabilities.
Experts predict that this investment will stimulate economic growth, enhance productivity gains, and create high-value employment opportunities. Industry analysts emphasise the significant impact that investments in emerging technologies, such as quantum computing, can have on Australia’s economy. The influx of capital into quantum computing is anticipated to boost efficiency, generate lucrative employment opportunities, and foster economic expansion. Australia’s investment plan has set its sights on establishing itself as a prominent player in the global tech industry.
Through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computing, the government is actively promoting innovation and technological progress, which in turn enhances Australia’s standing in the global digital economy. Australia’s push to enhance its digital capabilities is taking a significant step forward with its substantial investment in quantum computing. This financial infusion marks a pivotal moment in the country’s economic direction. With a strategic focus on investing in cutting-edge technologies, Australia is well-positioned to establish a unique edge in the global market, solidifying its reputation as a pioneer in the digital era.
Australia’s dedication to technological innovation is evident in the strategic focus on quantum computing in the 2024 Federal Budget. Australia’s significant investment is poised to position the country at the forefront of the quantum computing industry. There are numerous potential implications that could arise from this investment. It holds the potential to drive economic growth and create fresh opportunities in the digital sector.
Australia has the potential to completely transform multiple sectors by leveraging quantum computers’ immense computational power. This could lead to a significant boost in productivity and the creation of high-value jobs. Looking forward, this investment has the potential to be a significant milestone in Australia’s technological progress. As our country continues to explore the world of quantum computing, we are on the brink of discovering groundbreaking opportunities and obstacles. Australia’s digital economy’s future depends on its ability to effectively utilise this advanced technology.
Justin Lavadia is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum with a diverse writing background spanning various niches and formats. With a wealth of experience, he brings clarity and concise communication to digital content. His expertise lies in crafting engaging content and delivering impactful narratives that resonate with readers.