The National Broadband Network (NBN) will assist Australia in becoming a leading digital economy within a decade, Senator Stephen Conroy told a conference held in Sydney today.
Launching the Government's National Digital Economy Strategy, Senator Conroy spruiked the NBN as key to realising the vision of Australia ranking in the top five OECD countries in the portion of households with broadband connections at home.
The National Digital Economy Strategy also aims to see Australia in the top five OECD countries in the portion of businesses and organisations with a digital presence, increase online learning programs for educational institutions, develop electronic health records and see the majority of households and businesses have access to smart technology to manage energy use.
As part of the strategy, Senator Conroy announced $12.4 million in funding over three years for a Digital Enterprises initiative to assist SMEs and not-for-profit organisations in and around the 40 communities that will first connect to the NBN. Around $23.8 million has also been slated to establish "digital hubs" around those 40 communities.
Senator Conroy said: "The Gillard Government is committed to ensuring Australian households and businesses, through the NBN, can receive the full benefits of the digital economy no matter where they live in Australia. Building the NBN is a key step towards that vision."
"By connecting to high-speed broadband, households will benefit through savings generated from time-saving activities such as telecommuting for remote work and study and improved access to business and job opportunities, health, education, social and government services. Maximising the benefit of the digital economy requires action by all levels of government, industry and the community as a whole."
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.