Tech leaders have expressed new found enthusiasm and excitement following Malcolm Turnbull’s appointment to Prime Minister this week.
As a founding director of Australia’s first internet company, OzEmail, Mr Turnbull’s credentials and acumen are expected to deliver a boost to tech start ups across Australia.
“He understands the challenges we face in regard to tech disruption and the opportunities that exist for Australia to grow its economy,” said Steve Baxter on Channel Ten’s Shark Tank.
Ovum analyst, Al Blake, said “the incoming PM is from a background that understands technology and, more importantly, appreciates what it can do to stimulate the economy and improve society.”
After defeating former Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, 54 to 44 votes on Monday evening, Mr Turnbull expressed his vision for an Australian economy that embraced technology and business reform.
“We have to recognize that the disruption that we see driven by technology, the volatility and change, is our friend, is our friend if we are agile and smart enough to take advantage of it.
“We will ensure that all Australians understand that their government recognises the opportunities of the future, and is putting in place the policies and the plans to enable them to take advantage of it,” he said.
Peter Bradd, CEO of StartupAUS, a not-for-profit organisation looking to transform Australia through promoting technology entrepreneurship made the following comments:
“Mr Turnbull’s business acumen along with his knowledge of and well known support for the Australian technology sector will provide him with unique insights into the barriers facing Australian startups, particularly in terms of accessing venture capital and talent.
“We believe Mr Turnbull has the vision and conviction to do this effectively and we very much look forward to working with the Prime Minister and his Cabinet to ‘seize the day’ in support of Australia’s many startups,” he said.
Mr Blake said “Australia now has someone who ‘gets it.’”
