NSW to invest $1.6bn in digital infrastructure

The NSW Government will invest a record $1.6 billion in a series of digital infrastructure initiatives aimed at making the state the digital capital of the Southern Hemisphere.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the new funding will include the biggest single cybersecurity investment in Australian history — $240 million to bolster the government's cybersecurity capability and create a world-leading cyber industry.

"We are leading the nation on bricks-and-mortar infrastructure, and this historic investment will position us to develop a world-leading cybersecurity industry and be a jobs hub for this critical multibillion-dollar sector," he said.

The $240 million in cybersecurity funding will go towards protecting existing systems, as well as deploying new technologies and increasing the cyber workforce.

The initiative will also include funding for providing more government services online and via Service NSW, as well as improving the digital experience across agencies, including in education and health.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this will enable the government to fast-track digital projects aimed at improving the experience of interacting with government.

"We are leading the country on digital transformation and this investment will cement our reputation as a world leader in technology and innovation," she said.

"We are already using technology to make life easier for customers. Whether it's the Digital Driver Licence, Energy Switch or Park'nPay, our digital products provide added choice and convenience."

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