Denise Meredyth, Julian Thomas, Scott Ewing and Liza Hopkins summarise research on the social effects of computer network based in Atherton Gardens, a high rise public housing estate in Fitzroy, Melbourne. The aim of the project was to increase access to information and communication technologies for low income people, to contribute to neighbourhood renewal and...

This report discusses various models of community consultation and documents why there is currently such enthusiasm for community consultation at the local and state level in Victoria. The report also includes new research about practical approaches in Victoria to reaching people who may be disengaged, disinterested or facing barriers to public participation.

This paper summarises a four year study of the effects on 800 low-income and multiethnic households of access to free networked computers, training and information resources.

The idea of the 'information society' has taken hold in sociological and political analysis. Information technology, it is argued, is forming new virtual and actual networks that make up communities, both local and global. Computer networks are capable of transcending national boundaries, as information and communications is shared globally; they are also capable of redefining...

ABSTRACT In response to the 'digital divide', national and local governments in the UK, the US and Australia have embarked on various initiatives designed to promote the use of computer networks in low-income communities.