Strong Business Connectivity Props Up Weak Consumer Use

At first glance, the consumer side of Australia’s 2009 Connectivity Scorecard seems to paint a bleak picture and contribute to a low overall ranking:  while 3G telephony enjoys excellent penetration, Australians are less likely to possess the same skills or usage habits as those found in the Scandinavian countries which top the list. 

However, when it comes to business infrastructure and usage Australia posts excellent numbers in terms of internet commerce and the use of PCs in the workplace.  The country’s recent period of economic growth is accompanied by average spending when it comes to computer equipment, software and services. 

The Australian government receives high marks for its online services and integration of broadband into the school system.

The fact that connectivity and IT spending has not been adjusted according to relative GDP per capita also affects the comparison of Australia to the United States.

Australia Connectivity Performance by Scorecard Component