Full Story Why did the BoM website cost a bomb?
Nov 24, 2025
Technology reporter Josh Taylor unpacks the staggering rise of the Bureau of Meteorology's website redesign costs from $4 million to a whopping $96.5 million. He discusses user complaints, the confusing redesign features, and the lack of effective beta testing for key stakeholders like farmers. Taylor highlights contract blowouts with Accenture and Deloitte, compares the spending to other high-traffic sites, and shares insights on political backlash and the push for accountability. Join him as he delves into the chaotic world of public sector IT spending.
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Storm Revealed Website Failings
- Users reported the revamped Bureau of Meteorology site downplayed storm severity and hid warnings during a major storm.
- One listener said they expected light rain but instead sheltered as water flooded into their house.
Familiarity Drives User Backlash
- Major website upgrades often anger regular users when familiar features move or vanish.
- Josh Taylor noted BOM responded by restoring some previous features after user backlash.
Cost Jump From $4.1m To $96m
- BOM initially reported a $4.1 million cost but later disclosed the redesign exceeded $96 million.
- The new CEO's briefing uncovered additional costs, inflating the total well beyond expectations.