Communication is essential for all voluntary organisations, and computers are now an essential tool in all that we do. Recently the government released a new Digital strategy for New Zealand, which is available at www.digitalstrategy.govt.nz. It is a major revision of a previous strategy, and sets out a framework for all sectors to work together to get the most possible value out of the profound changes and opportunities offered by ICT technologies.

A key development in this strategy is the role of a newly formed independent body to guide that implementation of the strategy – a Digital Development Council. The Council is an incorporated society – its purpose is “to help achieve the vision that New Zealand will be a world leader in using information and technology to realise its economic, social, environment and cultural goals, to the benefit of all New Zealanders”.

Fran Wilde has been appointed as Chairperson and the Council is made up ten representatives from business, ICT, Maori and community  and voluntary sector – all supported by an alternate member. Dave Henderson (ANGOA) and Tina Reid (NZFVWO) have been appointed as the first holders of the community and voluntary sector positions.
The Council is to be supported by a membership which meets as a Digital Development Forum. This will collaborate within and across sectors to debate and agree on a set of strategic priorities that can be translated into action by the Council, and elect future representatives to the Council.  Membership of this forum is open to not for profit organisations with an interest in the objectives and goals of the Council and Forum. See www.ddc.org.nz

The forum will meet at least twice a year, and the first meeting has been called for September 23 in Wellington. If you would like to know more about this exciting development you can contact Dave Henderson dave.henderson@angoa.net.nz  or Tina Reid ed@nzfvwo.org.nz