A Research Model for Examining the Influence of Government Policy on Broadband Internet Access: the Case of Australia

Abstract

In common with other national governments, the Australian government recognizes that timely access to affordable high-speed networks is critical to long-term economic development. Many national approaches to promoting Internet development have been taken since the 1990s. How have those strategic and regulatory developments impacted on broadband Internet access? To answer this question, this research investigates the relationships between policy and broadband access by developing a research model. The research findings in this study suggest the relationships between the elements of policy and broadband access and indicate how the various policy aspects interplay to affect broadband access. The research model contributes a different approach towards studying government 'policy-in-use' and understanding 'actual effects' of various government policies with regards to broadband Internet access, rather than examining the linkage between policy goals and means. The research demonstrates that government policies governing the telecommunications service market and promoting information infrastructure have a significant impact on Internet access. The research findings provide insights into the regulatory outcome and the effectiveness of national approaches, which would be helpful to inform and improve the current practice in Australia. As a single case study, the research can not be used to generalize beyond Australian experience with Internet development. However, what the research provides is a foundation for developing analyses of policy effects with regard to Internet services in other settings.