The spread of information technology has been driven by rapid advances in technology, significant reductions in the real price of computer hardware and the development of user friendly, industry-specific software packages. The increasing accessibility of information technology offers increased opportunities for businesses and households in the fields of budgeting, business management, and accounting to name but a few.
Greater access to a range of services and information via the Internet is another major opportunity offered as a result of this technology. These advances have important implications for rural as well as urban businesses. For the farm business in particular, they offer the potential to overcome some of the constraints imposed by distance and limited access to services.
During the year to 30 June 2002, an estimated 50% of Tasmanian farms used a computer and 40% used the Internet as part of their business operations.
FARMS WITH COMPUTER AND INTERNET ACCESS AND USAGE(a), Tasmania and Australia
|
 | | Period | Tasmania | Australia |
| | | | |
| | | % | % |
|
| Computer | | | |
| Access | June 2002 | 57 | 62 |
| Usage | 2001-02 | 50 | 53 |
| Internet | | | |
| Access | June 2002 | 44 | 48 |
| Usage | 2001-02 | 40 | 43 |
|
(a) Farms with an estimated value of agricultural operations of $5,000 or more. Percentages are of all farms in each category.
Source: Use of Information Technology on Farms, Australia (cat. no. 8150.0). |
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