Centre for Spatial Data Infrastructures

Abstract: The importance of spatial information is fast being recognized by governments as essential in supporting a country’s economic, social and environmental interests. Demand for high-quality spatially related information that is complete, up-to-date, interoperable and integratable is increasing with impetus for managing widespread, long- and short-term disaster events, domestic security, environmental degradation and the need for improved community preparedness as a nation. The growth of spatial data infrastructures (SDIs) at all levels of government is reliant on collaboration both within and between jurisdictions and across the private sector and involves a multitude of users and stakeholders. Much effort is being reported globally towards National SDI development. However, our understanding of the collaboration and partnerships that contribute to building these SDIs is still relatively poor. Whilst much literature exists on SDI initiatives, advances in SDI components, data sharing, and how to structure and manage GIS-based projects, little contribution has been made to the nature of the interactions between the various organizations and stakeholders. Further, National SDI initiatives have largely concentrated on lead agencies rather than the underlying states or provinces, which in some federated countries either underpin the National initiative or develop SDI independently. This paper will explore current understanding of collaboration and partnership arrangements and will look at National SDI initiatives in Australia to explore these issues. The paper argues that with a matured understanding of the nature of collaboration, practitioners can better interact to form the long-lasting partnerships required to underpin National SDI development