State Government Convenes ICT Industry Summit and Tech Fest in Hobart Today

State Government Convenes ICT Industry Summit in Hobart

Hobart has become the focal point for Tasmania’s digital and economic future today, Wednesday, 18 March 2026, as the State Government hosts the Tasmanian Tech Fest 2026 alongside the high-level ICT Industry Summit. The events, held at major venues within the city, bring together government officials, industry entrepreneurs, and researchers to discuss the rapidly evolving technological landscape of the region.

Minister for Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy, Madeleine Ogilvie, officially opened the summit this morning, framing it as a pivotal moment for the state’s economic transition. The primary agenda for today’s session is the formal launch and implementation briefing of two new strategic documents: the Advanced Technology Strategy and the Digital Tasmania Strategy. These policies are intended to ensure that Hobart and the wider state lead in specific technological sectors rather than simply keeping pace with global trends.

Summit Agenda and Strategy Highlights

The ICT Industry Summit serves as the central forum for today’s legislative and policy discussions. Government representatives are meeting with technology providers to align state infrastructure with the needs of the private sector. Key agenda items for the sessions taking place today include:

• The integration of artificial intelligence and automated systems within state and local government frameworks.
• Strategic investment in advanced manufacturing to bolster Hobart’s industrial capabilities.
• The development of the "Digital Tasmania" roadmap to enhance high-speed connectivity for southern regional hubs.
• Coordinated efforts between the Department of State Growth and industry leaders to address the current digital skills gap.

Minister Ogilvie stated that the summit is essential for delivering the infrastructure and trusted systems needed to support Tasmania's modern economy. The event also serves as a platform for announcing new grants and partnership opportunities for local startups.

Greater Hobart: Glenorchy Council Hosts Belonging Day

While the state-level focus remains on technology and innovation in the city center, local government activities continue in the Greater Hobart area. The Glenorchy City Council is today hosting "Belonging Day 2026," a significant community and cultural session held in partnership with multicultural organizations. Taking place today, Wednesday, 18 March, this event features council-led workshops designed to foster social inclusion and celebrate the diverse demographic makeup of the northern suburbs.

Although the Hobart City Council is not holding a formal full council meeting today—following its most recent workshop on March 16 and ahead of its next scheduled Planning Authority Committee meeting on March 25—city officials are expected to attend the afternoon press conferences regarding the new digital strategies. These sessions are expected to outline how the city’s municipal services will integrate with the state’s broader technological goals over the coming decade.