The Australian National Audit Office has concluded that agencies' methods were inadequate to assess whether their internet-delivered services and programs were efficient and effective.
In Australia, government agencies are moving ahead with plans that will put millions of smartcards in local wallets and purses within a few years.
The newly appointed minister has voiced a desire to prevent the "hollowing out" of the New Zealand economy, which looks set to be a theme of his stewardship of the portfolios.
In 1997, government officials in Australia decided to put their clout behind Centrelink, the country's version of e-government, to link citizens, deliver services and create the "Face of the Australian Government," said Jane Treadwell, chief information officer for Centrelink.