Australia - Government Policies for the Digital Economy

Synopsis

The financial crisis has focused global attention on new infrastructure developments. Australia had already begun this process and it is now finding itself at the forefront of investigations into the development of the new infrastructure necessary to help stimulate the economy. Open access infrastructure provides the best way forward as it creates a multiplier effect that will assist developments in healthcare, education, energy and the environment, as well as in Internet and digital media. The Australian industry has embarked on a trans-sectoral campaign, convincing other sectors that an open network will give them the tools to save money and improve their service. At the same time this multiplier effect will create new jobs, perhaps as many as 100,000.

Table of Contents

• 1. Synopsis
• 2. Australian government is leading the way
  • 2.1 OECD gives Australia’s telecoms policy the thumbs up
  • 2.2 Kick-starting the digital economy
  • 2.3 NBN significant financial incentive
  • 2.4 Benefits are beyond telecoms
• 3. Essential for public and private sectors
  • 3.1 Multiplier effect creates new jobs
  • 3.2 FttH long term infrastructure goal
  • 3.3 Vertical models won’t deliver the national benefits
  • 3.4 Other sectors need to adjust their policies as well
• 4. Innovation
• 5. Digital Economy Industry Working Group (DEIWG)
• 6. Trans-sectoral thinking required for governments
• 7. Regulatory frameworks are failing
• 8. National benefits are astounding
• 9. Conclusions
• 10. Related reports