ICT Illawarra (ICTI), a newly formed Information and Communication Technology industry cluster, centred on region’s commercial centre, Wollongong, will officially launch on the 20th of May at the University of Wollongong's new Innovation Campus.  The launch of ICTI recognises the potential for the IT sector in the region, based on the success of local companies already performing on the international stage and major international organisations like CSC & Accenture choosing the region as a key base.

ICTI has been formed to assist with the ongoing growth and competitiveness of the Illawarra's ICT industry. While historically the strength of the Illawarra's economy has focused on heavy industries, such as mining, steel making and manufacturing, the ICT sector has been promoted by all levels of government as an industry that is important to the long term economic sustainability of the region. Through involvement in the cluster, local businesses will be investing in the Illawarra's future through the development of business linkages and skills.

With sponsorship from the NSW Department of State and Regional Development and the University of Wollongong, ICTI is incorporated as an independent association with a management committee, which includes leaders from local ICT stakeholder businesses.

ICT Illawarra will be formally launched by the Hon. David Campbell (NSW Minister for Transport and Minister for the Illawarra) and University of Wollongong Vice-Chancellor, Professor Gerard Sutton. Experienced IT entrepreneur, Bob Hayward, who was recently appointed Chief Technology & Innovation Officer APJ at CSC, will provide a key note presentation on the current state of the IT sector and opportunities for growth

Hon. David Campbell	Professor Gerard Sutton	Bob Hayward

This first meeting of the cluster will provide prospective cluster members the opportunity to network and to begin to explore the benefits of participating in the Cluster. Local ICT businesses, business users of IT, university researchers and people interested in starting an ICT or ICT-related business are all invited to this exciting milestone for ICT in the Illawarra.

For further information, visit www.icti.org.au or contact Carly: icti@icti.org.au or 02 4221 5827.