In brief: Government adds service providers to cloud panel

Another nine service providers have been added to the government's cloud panel.

The second tranche of suppliers added to the whole-of-government cloud services panel comprised Dimension Data Australia, Emantra, Envisian, Hypernode, iiNet, Infront Systems, RXP Services, SMS Consulting Group, and Cloud Solutions Group.

The panel's initial line-up of 49 providers was unveiled last week by finance minister Mathias Cormann.

The panel covers software-as-a-service, platform-as-a-service and infrastructure-as-a-service, as well as services such as optimisation and integration of cloud services.

The panel has an initial two year term, but could be extended by another four years, a statement issued by the office of the minister said.

"The panel enables Government to deliver services more efficiently, as well as provide services that are more responsive to business and community needs," the statement said.

The establishment of the whole-of-government panel follows the launch last year of an updated government cloud policy.

Under the policy, government agencies must adopt cloud where it is "fit for purpose, provides adequate protection of data and delivers value for money" when obtaining new ICT services or replacing existing services.

Additional suppliers are expected to be added to the cloud panel.