CeBIT 2011: Communications Alliance backs digital strategy, pledges to assist NBN Co

Peak body for the local communications industry, Communications Alliance, has backed the National Digital Economy Strategy (NDES), calling it a constructive move in ensuring Australians acquire the benefits they deserve from their investment in the creation of a National Broadband Network (NBN).

The alliance welcomed the strategy, rolled out by NBN Co at CeBIT 2011, underpinned by funded initiatives across a range of sectors.

Communications Alliance CEO, John Stanton, said the strategy unveiled by the Communications Minister, Senator Conroy, was well-targeted but in order to meet the goals for 2020, arranged stakeholder buy-in across industry, the community and all tiers of local government would be required.

“International experience shows that rolling out a network alone will not deliver a digitally-engaged population,” Stanton said.

The successful drive for digital engagement needed a comprehensive approach to online delivery of Government services – as shown in countries like the Republic of Korea, he said.

“We need to see state and local governments fully engaged with the federal initiative and contributing their impetus to the growth and optimisation of Australia’s digital economy,” Stanton said.

Communications Alliance will undertake its industry-led work to assist NBN Co in rolling out its network.