AWS strengthens partnership with Australia with new cloud deal

AWS has taken its partnership with the Australian Government’s Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) to the next level.

The two have signed a new Whole-of-Government agreement, making it easier for government agencies to tap into cloud and emerging technologies.

This new agreement, which sets for an initial three-year term, builds on a previous deal from 2019, which helped ease AWS access for local councils and public sector organisations. Now, the most recent version expands those benefits, making advanced technologies such as quantum computing more accessible while also making procurement easier.

One of the main advantages? A pre-negotiated contracting framework that cuts through red tape and saves government agencies time, effort, and resources. While agencies will still need to follow market-based approaches to ensure competitive pricing, this framework makes the whole process smoother and more efficient.

In addition to providing access to technology, the agreement prioritises upskilling. It seeks to help public sector teams in improving their expertise in cloud and digital solutions, ensuring they have the right skills to capitalise on new innovations.

DTA CEO Chris Fechner emphasised the impact of this collaboration, pointing out that over 140 government agencies – from transport and health to education and taxation – already rely on AWS for service delivery. With this new agreement, he anticipates even greater value, reliability, and security in cloud services across the public sector.

“The new AWS arrangement will drive better contract performance, vendor accountability, and maximise value,” Fechner said.

A notable upgrade in this agreement is broader access to the AWS Partner Network and AWS Marketplace. This means government agencies can investigate different varieties of cloud solutions, fostering innovation and enhancing service delivery. Plus, with more than 240 AWS services – including cutting-edge AI, security, and quantum technologies – on the table, agencies have plenty of tools to accelerate their digital transformation.

AWS has been deeply invested in Australia’s digital infrastructure since 2012, pouring over A$9.1 billion ($5.63 billion) into building and operating the AWS Asia-Pacific (Sydney) Region. And the investments aren’t stopping there – AWS plans to spend an additional A$13.2 billion in Sydney and Melbourne by 2027 to further expand its infrastructure.

Louise Stigwood, AWS Public Sector managing director for Australia and New Zealand, reinforced the company’s commitment:

“This arrangement includes access to more than 240 AWS services including leading AI, security and quantum technologies to enable faster delivery of citizen-centric services,” she said.

She also emphasised AWS’s role in supporting Australia’s economy, digital workforce, and local technology partners, ensuring long-term innovation and growth.

Security is still a primary issue in this cooperation. AWS recognises its responsibility in safeguarding sensitive government data and has built a security-first culture with significant investments in personnel, processes, and technology. As a certified Strategic Hosting Provider under the Australian Government’s Hosting Certification Framework (HCF), AWS meets the highest security standards. Its infrastructure has been assessed by the Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP) and is certified to operate workloads at the PROTECTED level – the highest classification for public cloud services in Australia.

With this strengthened partnership, AWS and the Australian Government are laying the groundwork for a more agile, secure, and innovative digital future.

See also: AWS unveils $11 billion investment in Georgia data centres

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