‘Massive point of difference’: tech leaders back Labor

Paul Smith and Yolanda Redrup

May 17, 2022 – 5.00am

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The Coalition is coming under pressure from industry heavyweights to provide funding and recognition for the increasingly important role technology plays in economic growth, as sector leaders said Labor was offering superior policy following a $1 billion commitment last week.

In the final week of the election campaign, the Morrison government faces accusations it has neglected a policy area that promises significant jobs and GDP growth, with a quirk of timing leaving it trumpeting plans to launch a tech industry roundtable, a day before Labor pledged the funding.

Paul Smith edits the technology coverage and has been a leading writer on the sector for 20 years. He covers big tech, business use of tech, the fast-growing Australian tech industry and start-ups, telecommunications and national innovation policy.

Yolanda Redrup is the editor of the AFR Rich List. She previously reported on technology, healthcare and Street Talk.