David Bartlett returned to the Sunshine Coast to present at a number of functions on 25 July 2012 on the topic of Digital Futures and the impact of high-speed broadband on the local community.
Regional Development Australia (RDA) Sunshine Coast and the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) sponsored Mr Bartlett’s visit, which included a Digital Futures Sunshine Coast presentation at Sunshine Coast TAFE, the University of the Sunshine Coast, Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast and a business network dinner for the Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce.
Mr Bartlett was a key driver in Tasmania’s early recognition of the importance of high-speed broadband and has since worked with regional economies and communities across Australia to prepare strategies for maximising economic and social renewal underpinned by broadband.
He was keynote speaker at the opening breakfast of the Sunshine Coast Business Expo which provided the catalyst for his return visit in July.
Digital Futures Sunshine Coast presentation by David Bartlett
Watch David Bartlett’s recorded webcast.
In this session David Bartlett presented on digital futures and the implications of widespred high speed broadband, and its impact on the way Sunshine Coast businesses and students solve problems, create wealth and communicate.
David Bartlett was the 43rd Premier of Tasmania from 2008 until 2011. During his parliamentary career he also held the positions of Minister for Innovation, Science & Technology, Minister for Education & Skills, Minister for Planning & Workplace Relations, Attorney General and Member for Denison.
Prior to entering Parliament David had an extensive career in the information technology and telecommunications sector. As Premier he switched on the first non-Telstra owned optic fibre backbone in Tasmania and he championed his home state as the first National Broadband Net-work location.
Throughout his political career David advocated strong economic growth through innovation, public education, food production, broadband, and renewable energy. David brings a unique perspective to discussions about the successes and challenges of public life, and is passionate about sharing the Tasmanian experience with other regional economies.
Since leaving the Parliament, David has been working with regional economies and communities across Australia to prepare strategies for maximising economic and social renewal underpinned by broadband.
David has recently accepted a part time position advising the University of Tasmania on strategies to maximise the research potential of broadband
The event partners for this presentation were RDA Sunshine Coast, Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast, Queensland Government, the Australian Government (DEEWR) and the University of the Sunshine Coast.
