“We are pleased to see that the Coalition has now publicly released its policy and announced the need for immediate action to address Australia’s recent and alarming deterioration in global rankings with regard to our digital competitiveness and innovation,” said Peter Lee, CEO of the IIA.
The IIA recently called on both the government and opposition to announce clear policy that supports the non-mining sector and invests in Australia's economic future, focusing on reforms that encourage innovation, diversity and long-term sustainability.
“To the Labor Government’s credit it did launch its National Digital Economy Strategy (NDES) back in May 2011 and recently updated the NDES in June this year. However, while the Government’s updated strategy puts forward 24 key initiatives across eight digital economy goals and seven key enablers underpinning Australia's digital capabilities, many of the actions appear superficial or have not yet materialised into anything that’s measurable or clearly shows the benefits of exactly what’s been delivered since the Government first launched its NDES more than two years ago,” said Mr Lee.
“While both sides of politics appear commitment and understand the importance of embracing the Digital Revolution, now is the time to take action or get left behind in a competitive global economy.”
The IIA is encouraged to see that the Coalition’s Plan recognises that government’s role is to lead by example and to put in place the “unexciting” but essential frameworks that assist and provide incentives for open and competitive markets that will drive ongoing innovation and growth. We also welcome a more cooperative approach with the states, territories and private sector in order to reduce duplication, save costs and expedite positive and more aligned outcomes.
Providing more transparency on the outcomes and effectiveness of government investment such as, the creation of a ‘dashboard’ publishing key metrics on Government ICT performance and progress on major new investments, is also welcomed by the IIA.
“Australia is now pivoting at a critical stage for its future prosperity and standing as a globally recognised, creditable and competitive digital nation. While the Australian public has its own choice to make on September 7, an incoming government has no choice but to take immediate action to implement effective and sustainable digital economic strategies,” said Peter Lee.
Australia’s future prosperity depends on the next government providing the supporting framework that allows Australian businesses and consumers to take full advantage of technology evolution if we are to become a truly competitive and sustainable digital economy.
The IIA calls on an incoming government for a ‘commitment to action’ and will continue to work collaboratively with the’ government of the day’ in order to keep it accountable and deliver on its promises to ensure Australia’s economic future is secured.
About the IIA
As the leading body representing Australia’s Internet industries, IIA is dedicated to deliver the ongoing leadership and support needed to collectively drive our Digital Economy forward. We believe confidence in the Internet is the key to development of the Digital Economy in Australia. We aim to build confidence in the Internet for Australian business and consumers by providing resources, accreditation, best practice guidelines, industry representation and helping to protect privacy and security online.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Jennifer Germano
Quelle/Source: WhaTech, 05.09.2013
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