Role

The Office of Spatial Data Management (OSDM) facilitates and coordinates spatial data management across Australian Government agencies. OSDM:

  • provides administrative support to the Spatial Data Policy Executive (SDPE) and the Spatial Data Management Group (SDMG)
  • implements the workplan and manages the working groups established by SDMG
  • facilitates sharing of experience and expertise between Australian Government agencies
  • provides technical advice to the SDMG
  • promotes efficient use of Australian Government spatial data assets
  • represents the Australian Government's interests in spatial data coordination and access arrangements with the States and Territories
  • fosters the development of a private sector spatial information industry.

Administration

OSDM was established in 2001 and operates under the guidance and direction of the Spatial Data Policy Executive (SDPE) and the Spatial Data Management Group (SDMG); the SDPE providing strategic direction and the SDMG overseeing operational management. This administrative arrangement replaced the Commonwealth Spatial Data Committee.

OSDM provides support and services to facilitate implementation of the Policy on Spatial Data Access and Pricing, operating across the whole of the Australian Government. Geoscience Australia provides administrative and technical support to OSDM; including accommodation, personnel services, and information technology support. Currently Geoscience Australia funds three OSDM staff. From time to time other SDPE member agencies contribute resources to OSDM.

Background

In September 2001 the Australian Government announced two Cabinet-supported initiatives that aimed to promote the development of Australia's spatial information industry: the Spatial Information Industry Action Agenda: Positioning for Growth ('Action Agenda'), and the Policy on Spatial Data Access and Pricing ('Policy').

The Action Agenda sought to reposition the spatial information industry by removing impediments to industry growth and participation in the global information economy. The Policy, influenced by the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Cost Recovery by Commonwealth Agencies, aimed to maximise the benefits derived from the application of spatial data, facilitate access to Australian Government spatial data, and support the growth of the spatial information industry. A review of both the Action Agenda and Policy in 2004 concluded that both had been successful.

The administrative arrangements, as outlined above, were established to support implementation of the Policy.

Relevant reading