Photo: Australian Information Industry Association

The Labor Government also announced that it will host the AIIA National iAwards events as the major sponsor for the next four years, cementing Victoria’s position as Australia’s tech capital.

The National iAwards is the leading awards program for the technology industry, recognising and rewarding entries from startups, government, corporates and students from across the nation.

The AIIA National iAwards is the centrepiece of Victoria’s annual Digital Innovation Festival, celebrating the tech talent and ideas that help give Victoria our competitive edge.

Moving into its 26th year, the AIIA iAwards recognise Australia’s leading digital technology innovators. Nominations for the 2019 awards are already open, with early bird applications closing on 4 February 2019.

The Labor Government is a strong supporter of Victoria’s tech sector, which already employs more than 117,000 people, and will continue to invest in the sector to ensure Victoria grows as a technology hub of the Asia Pacific.

The establishment of AIIA headquarters in Melbourne will boost opportunities for Victorian businesses to work together and grow the performance of numerous local industries.

The AIIA will continue to have a strong national presence with local offices in Sydney and Canberra and state council activities in all states.