‘How the Internet is transforming Australian society’

Posted by on 17 November 2014

There is little doubt that 2014 has presented numerous challenges to Internet users and legislators. The data retention bill, the worldwide ‘GamerGate’ controversy and rampant online harassment affect us all. Debate within the third sector about the implications of initiatives like the Ice Bucket Challenge and the impact of limited Internet access on young Australians in remote and indigenous communities has been intense. Conversely, we know that more young people than ever are engaged in political and social debate because of their ability to participate easily online. The Internet continues to transform Australian society, for better or for worse.

The annual Australian Internet Governance Forum (auIGF) provides a platform for all Internet users to debate these and other important issues from the previous 12 months. Each year we draw up a suggested list of relevant topics to cover in the auIGF’s plenary sessions.‘Gender and the Internet (opportunities, empowerment, accountability and obstacles)’, ‘Internet and indigenous communities (the inclusivity and engagement divide)’, ‘Internet, innovation and the third sector’ and ‘Internet and the law’ (data retention and national security legislation), are just some of the topics proposed for 2015.

Next year’s event will be held at the Park Hyatt, Melbourne on 6 & 7 October, 2015. Save the date!