Library Intelligencer

The digital economy is the global network of economic and social activities that are enabled by platforms such as the internet, mobile and sensor networks. A successful digital economy is essential for Australia’s economic growth and our ability to maintain our international standing. It offers new opportunities for businesses to a larger, potentially global, audience and for individuals to connect and collaborate.

The Australian Government released the Australia’s Digital Economy: Future Directions paper on 14 July 2009 which outlines:

why the digital economy is important for Australia
the current state of digital economy engagement in Australia and why current metrics point to a need for strategic action
the elements of a successful digital economy
the role for the Government in developing Australia’s digital economy, and
case studies of Australians who have successfully engaged with the digital economy from a diversity of industries including content, e-health, maps, banking, education, smart technology and citizen journalism.
Advancing Australia’s digital economy requires action by government, industry and the community. The Australia’s Digital Economy: Future Directions paper identifies the key areas of focus to maximise the benefit of the digital economy for all Australians. For background on the development of this paper, please see the Future Directions of the Digital Economy page.

Structure of the paper
The Australia’s Digital Economy: Future Directions paper is published in two versions:

Snapshot (35 pages): this provides an overview of the key areas of focus for government, industry and the community and a summary of some of the case studies.
Final report (104 pages): this provides more detailed discussion of government and industry initiatives and an in–depth look at 12 case studies which showcases examples of Australians successfully engaging with the digital economy.