BEYOND SDI: THE CASE OF VICTORIA

This paper describes a current definition of spatial data infrastructure (SDI) from Global Spatial Data Infrastructure. Based on this definition the contextual development of the Australian spatial data infrastructure is described, followed by a description of historical development of Victoria’s SDI in the past decade and a half. It started from a situation analysis in 1991 to assess needs for a coordinated approach to managing GIS through development of framework datasets to the current web-based spatial information delivery infrastructure. Using the framework of a “business model ” the approach to developing SDI in Victoria is described. In the process the organisation involved, Spatial Information Infrastructure of Department of Sustainability and Environment in Victoria is positioned as an infrastructure provider in the market. Partnership is its primary pathway to development. However based on recent development locally and globally it is highlighted that there may be a need to start to think beyond the current concept of SDI