ACS Calls for More Balance in Government Policy Development

Thursday 28 March 2002 - The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has raised concerns about the composition of the Federal Government's ICT Framework Committee, suggesting it is too representative of big business.

ACS National President Richard Hogg said the Society welcomed the formation of a group to develop a framework for the future of the Australian ICT industry, but was concerned at the poor representation by SMEs, educators, individuals and youth.

"We are encouraged to see high profile representatives from the research community and a leading academic representing the interests of the university sector, but question whether they are enough to balance the agendas of big business," he said.

"To develop a useful framework for our ICT future, we need to consider the views of people from every step in the supply chain, which includes not only large user and vendor organisations, but individuals and ICT professionals, SMEs, research bodies, educators and consumers."

Mr Hogg said it was important that the views of the profession were heard and that quality issues such as standards, ethics, societal impact and human factors were addressed, as well as simply commercial issues.

"As the professional society for those working in the ICT industry, we are disappointed not to have direct representation, although we are pleased to see that at least two of those appointed are actually Members of the ACS," he said.

The ACS also highlighted the low level of SME representation and the involvement of only one person from the education sector, despite the fact that education is key to Australia's future success. Mr Hogg said he applauded the Federal Government for thinking beyond its current term of office and seeking to develop a longer-term strategy.

"Despite this, we feel this committee is repeating the same mistake as some past Government initiatives by favouring the "big end of the town", which is something we cannot afford to do.

"We need a better balance of stakeholders involved in the decision-making process if it is to benefit the entire ICT industry. Given the 10 year scope of the committee's recommendations as detailed in the terms of reference, I also think it's important that youth be represented in same way, to provide a level of longevity as well as ensuring that the tomorrow's leaders have the opportunity to contribute," he said.

This media release is available on the ACS Web site at http://www.acs.org.au/news/280302.htm

ENDS

About the Australian Computer Society: The ACS is the recognised association for information technology (IT) professionals, attracting a large and active membership from all levels of the IT industry and providing a wide range of services to its 16,000+ members. A member of the Australian Council of Professions, the ACS is the public voice of the IT profession and the guardian of professional ethics and standards in the IT industry, with a commitment to the wider community to ensure the beneficial use of IT.See the ACS Home Page for more information. Media Enquiries:

Richard Hogg, ACS National President, Tel: (0408) 549 531, Email: richard_hogg@acslink.net.au

Caroline New, Caroline New PR, Tel: (02) 9555 1986 or (0411) 889 456, Email: cnew@acslink.net.au