The Victorian government has pledged just shy of AU$196 million to establish Digital Victoria in a bid to centralise and simplify the state's IT services.
"This pandemic has asked us to rely on technology more than ever, requiring the Victorian government's online systems to adapt -- fast. The Victorian Budget 2020-21 will build on these efforts, making it easier, simpler, and faster for Victorians to get the support and services they need online," the government wrote in a press release on Tuesday.
"Digital technology has been pivotal in keeping us connected during the pandemic, but whether it's going online to update your licence or sitting down for an important conference with colleagues, the safety and reliability of this technology is crucial."
As detailed in the state's 2020-21 Budget papers[1] [PDF], AU$30.5 million will be spent this year, with AU$27.2 million the following year, AU$33.9 million in 2022-23, and a final AU$64.5 million earmarked for 2023-24.
Included in the AU$195.9 million kitty is AU$7.5 million for Cyber Safe Victoria.
"To combat the global increase in cyber threats and keep us safe from these types of attacks, the Andrews Labor Government is investing a further AU$7.5 million to bolster the state's cybersecurity and protect our systems from cyber criminals," a press release explained.
AU$5.2 million will be spent on digitising business licensing through Service Victoria. In total, under the Department of Premier and Cabinet's "output measures", Service Victoria will receive AU$19.9 million this year, AU$2.5 million in 2022-23, and AU$3.2 million the following year.
Government regulation will also get a AU$75 million overhaul. The state intends to start with things like allowing Victorians to start a small business or doing a home renovation "quicker, simpler, and more straightforward".
"The investment will also establish a dedicated team to slash