AIIA will celebrate its 30th birthday in August with a cocktail party for current and former board and committee members and invited guests.

Australia’s first astronaut, Dr Paul Scully-Power, today gave an inspirational address to students at the University of Sydney to open National ICT Careers Week.

The first ever National ICT Careers Week begins on Monday 28 July to promote the career options available in ICT. Over 100 events and activities are being held around the country under the ‘Start Here, Go Anywhere’ banner. ‘National ICT Careers Week is aimed at broadening the horizons of young school leavers who may not have considered undertaking ICT studies or the possibilities that surround a career in the ICT industry,’ said Penny Coulter, Chair of the Careers Week Steering Committee.

AIIA Chairman John Grant today announced the permanent appointment of Ian Birks as CEO and Bridget Larsen as General Manager, Policy and Government Relations. ‘Mr Birks and Ms Larsen bring extensive industry experience and excellent records to their roles - I am very pleased to be making these announcements and I am confident that the ICT industry can continue to expect powerful representation and policy outcomes following these appointments,’ Mr Grant said.

The essential contribution skilled ICT workers make to Australian industries, governments, communities and citizens is being embraced by the wider business community, which is enthusiastically supporting the inaugural National ICT Careers Week, from 28 July to 2 August.