The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has praised the Federal Government’s Digital Economy Strategy, saying it is a strong ‘national blueprint’ that will 'maximize the National Broadband Network (NBN) investment and meet the economic, social and environmental challenges of the 21st century.’

 

The Digital Economy Strategy outlines an eight point strategy, including;

  • Online participation by Australian households
  • Online engagement by Australian businesses and not-for-profit organizations
  • Smart management of the environment and infrastructure
  • Improved health and aged care
  • Expanded online education
  • Increased teleworking
  • Improved online government services delivery and engagement
  • Greater digital engagement in regional Australia

 

“The ACS welcomes the National Digital Economy Strategy. An ICT blueprint is vital to ensure investment in this critical infrastructure meets desired outcomes and that the broadband pipe is leveraged to deliver e-services and develop a competitive e-economy,” said ACS President Anthony Wong.


Mr Wong welcomed the Strategy’s eight key goals and called for more attention on education and skills and the development of more pilot programs.

 

“Participating in a digital economy is not just about having a website, it is about the quantity and quality of e-commerce and online transactions. We need more Australians to get active online. Education and skills are key to ensuring that people can participate and leverage the digital economy opportunities,” Mr Wong said.

 

Mr Wong praised the government’s 2011-12 Budget, saying that the investment in skills and education will make the NBN more viable with a better educated workforce.

 

“We would like to see the development of more pilot programs on education such as the EduONE—Education Our New England project, as the NBN can aid in the development of skills, through online education,” Mr Wong continued.

 

"The ACS believes more focus is required on ICT education to ensure skills shortages do not continue to hold the country back. As ICT employment continues to increase, its important students are not left behind in this important area of education.”

 

Mr Wong also welcomed the investment of $23.8m for a Digital Communities initiative to establish 40 regional ICT hubs, and the $12.4 million for a Digital Enterprises initiative to assist small-to-medium enterprises and not-for-profit organisations.