Research has identified the positive and direct relationship between digital online commerce and economic growth and performance. Better communications and access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) strengthens local economic growth opportunities, leading to improved productivity and competitive advantage of existing industries and opportunities to diversify the regional economic base.

The Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry is facilitating awareness and engagement in the digital economy in the regions and is working in a number of ways to accelerate the penetration of broadband infrastructure and its effective use in regional Queensland. For further information about ICT in Queensland and the Department's broadband development activities and programs, please visit the ICT sectoral development unit website