Australia’s Digital Transformation Agency and Amazon Web Services Australia have signed a three-year whole-of-government arrangement that builds on the success of a previous deal from 2019, which aimed to accelerate access to cloud computing services.
The initial agreement promised a faster way to procure AWS services. The reduction in time, resources and effort is made possible by a contracting framework with pre-negotiated terms and conditions. Additionally, the agreement aimed to strengthen contractual terms and improve support for public service technology or cloud upskilling.
Chris Fechner, the CEO of DTA, which serves as the Australian government’s trusted adviser on digital transformation, emphasized AWS’ track record of supporting Commonwealth nations in various fields, including healthcare, education and transportation.
“The new AWS arrangement will drive better contract performance, vendor accountability and maximize value,” he said.
In addition to developing and implementing digital and information communications technology policies, DTA advises the nation’s leaders on the Data and Digital Government Strategy and Implementation Plan.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese plans to invest at least $2 billion over the next decade to enhance Australia’s cyber capabilities. This initiative includes a cloud computing partnership established with AWS in July 2024, during which the Amazon subsidiary launched a Top Secret Cloud platform to enhance the country’s secure communications capabilities.