Whitehall’s chief technology officer signed the memorandum, which covers skills and information sharing, on a trip to Australia.

The arrangement follows similar agreements the UK has signed with New Zealand, Estonia, South Korea and the United States.

Maxwell said that he was “genuinely impressed and excited” to see the work being done by the Digital Transformation Office – Australia’s equivalent of the UK’s Government Digital Service.

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The memorandum contains an agreement on common goals to build better digital public services, provide support for those with limited digital capabilities, and to encourage open source software and solutions.

It also covers information sharing on topics including user needs, assisted digital, open standards, connectivity and teaching children to code.

Secondment of staff between the two governments will also take place to help maintain communications and exchange information.

DTO chief executive Paul Shetler said: “I really believe Australia is perfectly positioned to be a world-leader in digital transformation. This MOU cements our plans, and outlines some of the opportunities to share expertise and work on common problems together, that will help bring that vision to life.

The memorandum takes effect immediately and will be in place for an initial period of five years, with annual reviews taking place.

Picture courtesy of DTO, Australia