Gillard Government pushing for Australia to become leading digital economy in 2020 CREDIT: NBN

The government is determined to make Australia the leading digital economy in 2020. Senator and Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy delivered the government's long-term vision for Australia.

Plans are outlined in the Update to the National Digital Economy Strategy (NDES) and it clears the path for Australia's bright economic future. PM Julia Gillard is on board with this vision. The government will take action in bringing all government services online before the year 2017 ends.

The Australian government also plans to promote digital careers and establish development programs for students. Such programs will help attract more students to pursue careers in information and communication technology. ICT courses in the education system will get a boost to get more students to enroll. Australia is facing a widening gap between the demand for ICT skills and number of ICT professionals. The government wants to bridge that gap by launching a Digital Careers program.

The plan to adopt cloud computing technology in government agencies can make the delivery of government services faster and more efficient. The government will also work on ensuring that Australia can be trusted with handling data processing and storage.

The Gillard government's investment in the National Broadband Network will transform services in education and healthcare.

Government services will go mobile

Soon Australians will be able to access government information and services using their mobile device. The global popularity of tablets and smartphones connected to 4G networks is a great opportunity to enhance the use of government services.

The "Digital First" policy will require government agencies to make services available online including mobile platforms before 2017 ends. Mobile services are not only easy to use but greatly enhance service delivery.

The number of Australians doing business on their mobile devices is increasing. With government services going mobile, Australian can simply use their iPhones, Android phones and tablets anytime and anywhere.