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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1996 Week 3 Hansard (28 March) . . Page.. 887 ..

MR STEFANIAK (continuing):

Initiatives have been taken jointly with schools to make available resources go further. I particularly want to mention initiatives in the information technology area because the committee saw this as a critical issue - and I agree with the committee.

Bulk leasing arrangements, on very favourable terms, have been negotiated to enable schools to acquire new computers without having to outlay the initial capital upfront. These arrangements are also being extended to photocopiers.

Most colleges and all new schools are being connected to the ACT Government data network and they are being assisted to install cabling for Local Area Networks.

During 1995-96, primary schools will receive around 180 computers acquired from government departments. Although the computers are not new, they provide a valuable learning resource for students.

Most schools now have easy and inexpensive access to Internet. We are also contributing to the Commonwealth's development of an Australian Education Network (commonly known as EdNA) which will provide access to curriculum and course material, and a communication medium with other teachers and students around the country.

All new schools are being cabled for information technology and the department is exploring options for a rolling program for upgrading the cabling in all schools.

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