- Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade
Victoria's leading entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups have been recognised for creating positive change for under-represented groups in the digital tech sector at this year's TechDiversity Awards.
Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula last night joined leaders from across the sector at a ceremony to present the awards, which have been backed by the Andrews Labor Government since 2015.
Acknowledging the importance of diversity in industry and workplaces across Victoria and Australia, the TechDiversity Champion Award was presented to Vic ICT for Women, which was recognised for its work in helping girls and women at all levels become leaders in the digital tech and ICT industry.
Vic ICT for Women hosts networking events and provides career advice and a free resource of female tech speakers.
Other winners demonstrating the values of diversity across industry included Project Evolve at NBN (business category), girledworld (education), CSIRO FindHer (government) and Go Girl (advertising and media).
Victoria's tech and ICT sector is booming and employs more than 137,900 people across more than 19,300 businesses, generating $36.6 billion in annual revenue.
The Labor Government recently hosted the Digital Innovation Festival promoting diversity and equal opportunity with events including RoboCup, Social Innovation Summit and the Women in Security Conference.
More broadly, the Government supports high-profile digital tech events including Reimagination, CISCO Live, Australian Technologies Competition and the National iAwards.
As stated by Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula
"Victoria is Australia's tech and innovation heartland and it's important that all Victorians have the same opportunities to develop and grow and succeed in this thriving sector."
"The TechDiversity Awards are a great way to recognise and celebrate the organisations and individuals that are making such important contributions in this space."
As stated by TechDiversity Foundation co-founder Deirdre Diamante
"This year we had the highest number of nominations ever from entrants who are truly aware of the value of diversity and what it can do for businesses and organisations."
"From neurodiversity and indigenous programs to CALD communities and the LGBTIQ+ community, this year's entrants show just how far-reaching the impacts of diversity reach across Victoria and Australia."
