ACS President, Tom Worthington, believes the IITPAC, announced by the Federal Minister for Finance, John Fahey, in Canberra on 10th October, is made up almost entirely of senior bureaucrats and business executives.
"These people are not just dealing with some technical issue about Government computer use, but are deciding how Australian citizens will have access to Government information," he said.
"The composition of such committees should be broadened to include representation from community groups and the information profession."
Mr Worthington is also concerned about the issue of equity and access.
"On-line access is only "free" if you already have the necessary equipment and network connection. The Community Information Network (CIN) project of the previous Government has been terminated and an election promise of $11.4M for networked library access was reduced to $2.2M.
"Without some form of community access, Government Internet use will increase information inequity and frustrate potential efficiencies in Government business," he said.
Mr Worthington's comments are being delivered as part of a series of seminars and meetings on the on-line future in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and the UK, which will culminate with the Society's 30th anniversary celebrations in Sydney on 3rd December 1996.
ENDS
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