In a speech to the Senate this week, Senator Kate Lundy, Shadow Minister Assisting on Information Technology, highlighted the continuing inequities that exist in Australia with respect to internet access.
“As more companies, government services and community organisations establish an internet presence, I cannot help but think that only part of our population is privileged enough to participate in this new medium.
“Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that 18 per cent of Australian households have internet access. Whilst this represents remarkable growth of 28% over the last six months, it means that 82% of households do not have access.
“This raises very serious questions about equity and access to the internet and to information technologies. Previously, ABS statistics showed that the biggest single reason why people do not have internet access is cost, reinforcing the contention that the phenomenon of ‘information haves and have-nots’ is related directly to household income.
“Growth of the internet is exponential, with over 100 million people across the globe having internet access. The volume of data traffic doubles every 100 days and as we move closer to the new millennium these growth trends will continue.
I am concerned, however, that a large proportion of our society will not be afforded the opportunity to participate.
“This exclusion zone goes beyond just household access and into the areas of education, the workplace and community groups. As there is a transfer of government and corporate services to the internet medium, there are sections of our community that will be permanently excluded from accessing these services.
“Equity of access to the internet presents a political challenge that should not be underestimated. It is about a cultural shift and technological advances that will change the way society accesses information, entertainment and public and private services.
“Governments, therefore, have a fundamental responsibility to ensure equitable access.
“The Minister for Communication, Information Technology and the Arts, Senator Alston has failed to give this issue the level of priority it deserves and it is my hope that On-line day will help to rectify his misplaced priorities.
Contact Simon Tatz on 0418 488295
