The department
Overview
The objective of the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy is to develop vibrant, sustainable and internationally competitive communications and entertainment sectors of the Australian economy.
The department supports the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy through the provision of policies, expert advice, and planning and managing the implementation of initiatives across Australia.
The department is located in the heart of Canberra, in the parliamentary triangle, and has approximately 650 staff.
Current strategic priorities
Transforming the structure of telecommunications
Supporting the rollout of and transition to the National Broadband Network
Existing networks cannot support increasing and expected demand for faster, more affordable, broadband services. The Australian Government has established NBN Co Limited to design, build and operate Australia's new high-speed National Broadband Network. The department is working with NBN Co to connect up to 93 per cent of Australian homes, schools and workplaces with fibre-based services, and the remaining seven per cent of premises with next-generation wireless and satellite technologies.
Improving regional communications services
Australia is a large country with vast distances between centres of population, and many people live in isolated communities. This creates unique challenges for regional communications services in Australia. The department is improving communications services for Australians living and working in regional, rural and remote Australia.
Switchover to digital television and enhancing the broadcasting sector
Switching over to digital television
Australia is switching to digital television. By the end of 2013, all free-to-air television broadcasters in Australia will have converted from analog to digital transmission. The department is coordinating this switchover.
Enhancing broadcasting services
Broadcasting remains one of the most powerful ways of delivering information, entertainment and education. The department is helping to enhance the quality and diversity of television and radio broadcasting services for all Australians.
Realising the benefits of the digital economy
Developing the digital economy
A successful digital economy is essential for Australia's productivity, global competitiveness and improved social wellbeing. It can help with managing key public policy challenges such as our ageing population, health, education and climate change priorities across the Australian economy.
Reshaping regulation for converging technologies
Convergence allows delivery of different types of content and communications services through common networks and consumption over a variety of platforms and user devices. The rollout and take-up of the National Broadband Network will increase this trend. Trends relating to convergence—including digital technologies, internet protocol networks and high-bandwidth infrastructure—are driving demands for a reshaping of regulation in the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors in the interests of Australian consumers, businesses and the broader economy. The Australian Government aims to provide a framework for a competitive market and balanced regulatory structure that maximises the benefits of high-speed broadband services.
Making the best use of scarce spectrum
The switch to digital television will free up scarce spectrum, which new communications services such as high-speed wireless broadband can use. In June 2010, the government announced it will release 126 megahertz of broadcasting spectrum as a digital dividend. It aims to auction the digital dividend spectrum in late 2012.
Enabling a good consumer experience
Empowering consumers and increasing cybersafety and security
While the internet delivers substantial benefits, it also involves potential dangers including exposure to illegal and prohibited content and risk of electronic attacks and fraud. Consumer confidence is essential for the take-up of new technologies, new services and new applications. The department empowers consumers by building confidence in the telecommunications sector, increasing awareness and educating the community about cybersafety and cybersecurity.
