How about a Communications and Content Alliance?

Stuart Corner
Thursday, 12 February 2009 01:44

IT Industry - Market

Music industry veteran, Michael Smellie, addressing a Communications Alliance conference in Melbourne, says there needs to be more collaboration between different industry sectors involved in broadband, and has suggested that Communications Alliance might broaden its membership base to embrace content providers.

"The speed of change and direction of our broadband future will in many ways be determined by the ability of telcos and content providers to work together," Smellie said. "If, for example, turf wars develop then this will greatly hinder the development of new and more relevant content and also the new and innovative business models needed to support them."

According to Smellie "in my view is the real Big issue. Our future will be determined by how and how quickly we bring these parties together." He praised the Federal Government for "having shown foresight by establishing a Department of Broadband, Communication and the Digital Economy" and in so doing "recognised the interrelated nature of these components."

Smellie told his audience: "A big first step for your Alliance could well be to do something similar and broaden your reach and representation to more represent our broadband future."

Smellie concluded: "Australia's broadband future is still very much in its formative years. But like all kids it will grow up fast and the steps that we take in these formative years will have lasting implications on the scale, sophistication and impact on society.

"These steps will also be a determining factor in positioning Australia's creative talent in the world. I want to see this country maximise the opportunities that we have from a commercial and cultural perspective. To do so will see us entering some murky waters and taking risks that we have avoided up to now."

Australian content issue must be resolved
He called on Industry participants to "establish commercial relationships with those across the value chain," and said the issue of Australian content in the future needs to be aired and dealt with in a forward looking way, not tacked on as an afterthought or political trade off."

Telcos he said would "have a critical role in determining the future shape of the industry and hence its impact on society," and in this capacity, "should be looking to invest in and encourage innovative business models, new segments and new entrants to the business."