Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee

Inquiry into Electronic Democracy

Discussion paper, October 2002

[Table of Contents]

1 Introduction

1.1 Inquiry

The Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee (“SARC”) has been requested to undertake an inquiry into electronic democracy (e-democracy). This inquiry involves an analysis of the opportunities available through the use of new technologies to improve public access to, and participation in, the processes of Parliament and government.

It is not intended that the Inquiry will examine issues related to service delivery and Government on-line processes, except where they may impact directly on issues of electronic democracy.

1.2 Aim and structure of this Discussion Paper

The aim of this Discussion Paper is to outline key issues relating to electronic democracy to assist interested parties and members of the public to consider its future role in Victoria. Possible questions for consideration are suggested throughout the paper.

Context

The paper provides background contextual information on:

our system of representative democracy and the vital role that informed public participation plays in maintaining a healthy and vibrant democracy;
the nature and impact of new and emerging electronic technologies, including their feature of both driving and facilitating citizen-centricity; and
the character and scope of electronic democracy – the use of electronic technologies in democratic processes.

Impact

An analysis of the actual and potential impacts of electronic technology on the democratic processes identifies a number of opportunities and challenges.

Key themes

Key themes identified from the analysis in the previous Section are discussed:

information
interaction
decision making – including electing.

For each of these themes, a series of questions is identified that can form the starting point for thinking and debate about electronic democracy.

Implementation Issues

The importance of equitable access of all citizens to electronic democracy is discussed. Options for promoting equitable access are outlined, including ways to overcome educational and social barriers to the implementation of electronic democracy.

Issues relating to legal impediments to e-democracy including concerns over privacy and secure electronic transactions are then outlined. Finally, the infrastructure required for electronic democracy is discussed.

As in the previous Section, questions are identified for each of the implementation issues as starting points for thinking and debate.

1.3 Inquiry Timetable

The deadline for submissions is 5.00m PM on Friday 25 October 2002. The Committee is planning to hold public hearings around Victoria. It is anticipated that the Committee will table its report by 31 December 2002.

1.4 Making a Submission

The Committee invites individuals and groups to make written submissions on the terms of reference set out in the Discussion Paper. Those preparing submissions should feel free to include any other issues they consider relevant, whether or not they are mentioned in this Discussion Paper.

Anyone can make a submission or comment. The inquiry raises issues of importance to all Victorians and it would assist the Committee in its deliberations to receive the views of both individual citizens and organisations.

You may wish to provide the Committee with your submission electronically. You can do this by sending your submission in an email, or attached to an email, to: andrew.monaghan@parliament.vic.gov.au

Hardcopy submissions should be sent to the address or fax number shown below.

There is no set format for a submission. Your contribution can take the form of an email, a letter, a short briefing paper or a longer research document.

All submissions are treated as public documents unless confidentiality is requested.

Further information on the inquiry can be obtained from the SARC’s website at: www.parliament.vic.gov.au/sarc

Contact details

Enquiries:

Andrew Monaghan, Senior Policy Officer (03) 9651 3624

Email:

andrew.monaghan@parliament.vic.gov.au

Submissions can be posted or delivered to:

Ms Mary Gillett MP
Chair
Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee
Level 8, 35 Spring Street
MELBOURNE VIC 3000

Submissions can be faxed to:

(03) 9651 3674

Electronic submissions can be sent to:

andrew.monaghan@parliament.vic.gov.au