The Australian Information Industry Association has called for the acceleration of delivery of high performing, competitive digital infrastructure across the country.
In a policy document (PDF), the Association notes Australia's unpleasant distinction as a "stall out" nation - high digital evolution but weak momentum. One of these weak areas is the rollout of fast broadband throughout the nation.
In 2013-14, 95% of Australian businesses had internet access, 99% of which used broadband (ABS, 8129.0 - Business Use of Information Technology, 2013-14). However, not all broadband is equal - speeds vary wildly depending on the provider and technology used.
It's this difference in speed that will make or break Australia in the global broadband economy.
Australia's major fast broadband project, the National Broadband Network (NBN) is proving to be a sensitive topic during the lead-up to the Federal Election. The NBN had been activated in just 1,019,208 premises - residential, commercial and otherwise - by May 26, 2016*.
The AIIA notes that not only is Australia lagging behind countries where super-fast fibre-based broadband is common, but also countries including Taiwan and Thailand and our neighbours across the ditch; New Zealand.
" Despite bipartisan support for high-speed ubiquitous broadband, Australia’s performance in global internet speed rankings is at an all-time low- falling from a high of 30th some 3 years ago to a ranking of 46th in December 2014 and 60th by March 2016".
The Association says in the absence of suitable broadband and mobile connectivity infrastructure, it will be difficult for Australia to leverage emerging technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and the explosion of data; i.e. real time and evidenced based decisions.
It's estimated the potential global annual GDP value of IoT is around $11 trillion: some, with potentially $120b per annum for the Australian economy by 2025.
The AIIA has called on both sides of Government to fast-track the rollout of the NBN and to work with industry to support the expansion of Australia’s wireless market in 5G and beyond.
"The National Innovation and Science Agenda articulates a vision premised on technology led innovation but it is hard to imagine how Australia’s global competitiveness can keep pace unless all Australians have access to fast, ubiquitous, affordable connectivity infrastructure," says the AIIA.
The Australian Information Industry Association was established in 1978 and advocates for the growth of the nation's "digital ecosystem"
* Source : NBN Weekly Progress Report.
Image Credit: BigStock
