Today’s blog post focuses on the Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) and their 2019 gala awards night, the iAwards, held on Thursday 29th August. This national event encourages innovation within the technology industry, and is sponsored by key players in technology and governance, including .au Domain Administration.

Who are AIIA?

AIIA are a not-for-profit organisation who support members by delivering ongoing policy and advocacy in the ICT industry. Since 1978 AIIA have provided an opportunity for industry leaders to support technology entrepreneurs across public and private sectors. 

AIIA membership offers a range of benefits, including the opportunity to have a voice, influence policy, grow the industry both locally and globally, as well as support and access to networking opportunities and events, including the iAwards.

What are the iAwards all about?

As indicated on the AIIA website, the national iAwards is Australia’s leading event promoting digital innovation across the technology sector to ‘showcase the inspiring achievements of our home-grown innovations’. 

The iAwards are include multiple categories, at both student and organisational levels. Core organisational categories include Business Service Markets, Community Service Markets, Consumer Markets, Industrial and Primary Industries and Public Sector & Government. 

Chief Financial Officer at auDA, James Shady presented the Consumer Markets category iAward to popular children’s entertainers the Wiggles. Their iAward was for the development of their new app Fun Time with Faces. Mr Shady took the opportunity to congratulate all of the finalists and highlight upcoming changes to .au. He explained that the launch of second level registration will provide the option of shorter and simpler domain names for products and projects as those presented on the night.

“These changes are aimed at supporting Australian innovation and ensuring that no matter the stage of their journey, Australian’s are able to take advantage of .au domains reputation for security and stability.” 

As the registry provider for .au, and in conjunction with auDA, we commend AIIA. The iAwards presents a wonderful opportunity for Australian internet entrepreneurs to demonstrate their commitment to technology, and we would like to congratulate all of this year’s National iAwards nominees and winners. 

Have a question, some feedback or an idea for a future blog post? Email us today at blog@afilias.com.au