Brownbear

I would suggest that the digital economy is all profit making endeavour that utilises digital equipment to achieve that objective. This basicly means that anything that uses any form of binary code to operate is part of the digital economy. The vast majority of our equipment in the modern world has some form of digital control system. The obvious things are the computer and internet, telephones and Digital TV's, but it also includes cars with their computer engine controls etc.

If we look at the digital street directory we find that the actual unit is reliant on an internal computer which receives GPS information from satelites by digital signal and maps are updated using a computer and the internet. The number of enterprises making a profit from this one item are numerous. The main difference between the digital and the paper directory is ease of use and the ability to have continuosly up to date information.

Australian's have a history of quickly embracing good new technology. There is no doubt that Australians are eager to adopt and use digital technology because they see it as making life easier. We are able to access information easier and faster. We are able to participate in a variety of activities such as chatting with friends, watching videos, playing games and doing our banking and paying bills from home. The developments that are occuring in digital technology make it exciting and desirable for all Australians at some level.

One of the biggest problem with digital technology is equal access for all. At the root of this access problem is the antiquated telephone cable system that covers this country. While there has been work done in the major population centres with optical cable there is still a lot to be done and over large distances. This has been recognised in the NBN initiative by the Goverenment. The cost of using the landline system is, IMHO, rediculous. I believe that this can be blamed on the largest telecomunication provider in the country also owning the hardware. I firmly believe that the owner of the hardware should not be allowed to retail telephony services. Because of the size and population spread in Australia I believe that the infrastructure should be owned and maintained by a Government instrumentality so the equity of access and pricing issues can be addressed fairly. Australia also needs increased cabling to link with overseas telecom networks to increase bandwith.

I think that these measures are essential if all Australia are going to be able to enjoy and benefit from the ongoing digital revolution.

Finally let me say that in my opinion the Government has no place trying to replace parents. It always cost a fortune and invariably doesn't achieve the objective. Forget the compulsory internet filter and tell the parents to do their flaming job and stop blaming others for their incompetence.