2016-11-08 Services & Organisation Committee Agenda

Digital Economy

Who:                                                             The Sunshine Coast Digital Action Plan led by Regional
                                                                 Development Australia Sunshine Coast suggests that
Digital industries are captured in a number of Australia         digital innovation positively impacts on supply chain
and New Zealand Standard Industry Classifications. For           management, process automation, real time reporting,
example internet service providers, web search portals           business intelligence capabilities and enables greater
and data processing services sit within the information          mobility.
media and telecommunications classification whereas
computer system design and related services sit within the       It is globally recognised that technology-based businesses
professional, scientific and technical service classification.   are important drivers of economic growth and innovation.
                                                                 Start-up Aus believes that Australia is not keeping pace
For the purposes of this plan the focus of actions is centred    with the rest of the world, has “under-invested” in hi-
on: the provision of critical infrastructure necessary to        tech industries, and this has resulted in many technology
support the use of technology; assisting an entrepreneurial      companies leaving not only regional areas but Australia
start-up sector to grow and prosper; and supporting the          generally in search of talent, capital and a more supportive
growth of existing and new digital economy businesses            regulatory environment.
across all industry sectors.
                                                                 The digital economy supports diversification in a high
What:                                                            value low impact sector that has the potential to have a
                                                                 substantial and positive impact on regional exports. It is a
Digital technologies are:                                        sector that embraces clustering and collaboration, that links
                                                                 strongly to education, and which is a strong contributor to
•   driving innovation
                                                                 employment growth. Additionally Noosa boasts a range
•   changing the way businesses operate                          of co-working spaces, serviced offices, networks, business
•   opening new channels to global markets                       mentors and is home to a number of successful digital
                                                                 entrepreneurs.
•   a high value-adding sector

•   an export focused sector

•   have a strong link to education and training.

We are in the midst of a global trend that signals a paradigm
shift in the way business is carried out, including how
business engages with its customers.

The digital economy extends beyond just the ICT sector and
significantly affects the competiveness of all businesses. It
is widely accepted that technology enables many businesses
to achieve productivity gains and lowers costs relating to
production, marketing, sales, back office processing and
reporting.