Broadband today : the role of Australian local government authorities

The paper seeks to clarify the role of Local Government Authorities in facilitating the Australian digital economy. It does this by analysing responses to the 2012 BTA, NBN and Digital Economy Survey. This reveals the level of recognition by LGAs of relevant issues; their level of use of federal, state and other programs designed to enable end user engagement; and other actions LGAs are undertaking to enable their regional digital economies. The analysis reinforces the significant role of LGAs in the future of Australia’s digital economy and identifies areas where assistance may be required.

e-Technology v t-Engagement : a snapshot of Australia's digital economy readiness

Before e-Technology’s effects on users can be accurately measured, those users must be fully engaged with the relevant systems and services. That is they must be able to function as part of the digital economy. The paper refers to this ‘user functionality’ as t-Engagement. Not all users are t-Engaged and in many instances achieving t-Engagement will require assistance from external sources. This paper identifies the current state of Australia’s regional digital economy readiness and highlights the role of Local Government Authorities (‘LGAs’) in enabling t-Engagement. The paper analyses responses to the 2012 BTA, NBN and Digital Economy Survey by LGA and other regional organizations within Australia. The paper’s particular focus is on the level of use by Local Government Authorities of federal, state and other programs designed to enable t-Engagement. The analysis confirms the role of LGAs in enabling t-Engagement and in promoting Australia’s digital economy. The paper concludes by reinforcing the need to ensure ongoing meaningful federal and State support of regional initiatives, as well as identifying issues requiring specific attention.