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The Coalition is aware of the potential global 'digital divide' that may develop between countries as technology haves and have-nots.
In August this year the Coalition Government and the World Bank announced a $1.5 billion partnership - the Virtual Colombo Plan - to combat global digital divide issues.
The Coalition has committed $200 million to the Virtual Colombo Plan and will plan to share Australia's ICT expertise with developing countries. In particular, the Virtual Colombo Plan aims to create opportunities to improve education and access to knowledge across the developing world from primary school teacher training to advanced courses for policy makers.
During its next term, the Coalition will continue to work with overseas governments and international organisations to address global digital divide issues.
The Greens stongly agree with ISOC-AU and its affiliates on these issues. All need to be addressed urgently, not only to support future development of the Internet, but generally as matters of public policy. We feel that the right first step is an inquiry (as mentioned) which will allow voices other than those of entrenched interests to be heard.
The Greens are very supportive of the aim to increase internet access equity, to reduce the "digital divide", and to further Australia's role and standing in the Internet community.