The rapid evolution and uptake of new technologies is a central focus for the Australian Communications and Media Authority, according to its 2007-08 annual report, tabled in Federal Parliament today.

‘As an organisation, we are very conscious that media and technology are assuming an ever greater role in people’s daily lives,’ said Chris Chapman, ACMA Chairman. ‘This is very much reflected in the range of consumer and industry research and analysis we undertook throughout the year, to keep abreast of this phenomenon.’

ACMA’s research and evidence base ultimately informs the diverse range of regulatory, monitoring and compliance activities it undertakes across the Australian broadcasting, internet, radiocommunications and telecommunications sectors.

‘The report of our Media and Society Research Project published in December 2007, offers a fascinating insight into the many ways Australians are now connecting to each other and the world through both traditional media and mobile communication,’ Mr Chapman said.

‘Other ACMA research shows that the number of households with broadband continues to grow, as does the awareness and take up of new, converged technologies offering voice and data services on one device, such as 3G, mobile email and voice over internet protocol (VoIP).

‘In many ways, VoIP is a striking exemplar of the challenges that new and evolving technologies present to us. Our aim is to strike a balance between effective regulation while enabling innovation and providing greater clarity to industry about their obligations.

‘ACMA faces many challenges, not least of which is the need to carve out some head space and scenario plan for what is over the horizon. We are aiming to ensure that communications and media work in Australia’s national interest,’ Mr Chapman said.

The ACMA Annual Report 2007–08 is available on the ACMA website. For printed copies, please call ACMA Communications and Publishing on (03) 9963 6968.